What Happens When You Have Irregular Heartbeats (Fast or Slow)?

Irregular heartbeats, also known as arrhythmias, refer to abnormal heart rhythms where the heart rate is either too fast (over 100 beats per minute), too slow (below 60 beats per minute), or irregular. These irregularities can be a sign of underlying heart conditions. Here are some common health issues that may cause irregular heartbeats:

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1. Arrhythmia

Arrhythmia is a condition where the heart beats irregularly, either too fast, too slow, or in an irregular pattern. Common types of arrhythmias include:

• Atrial Fibrillation (AFib): A common arrhythmia that causes the heart to beat irregularly and can be fast or slow. AFib increases the risk of stroke.

• Tachycardia (Fast Heart Rate): The heart beats too fast, usually over 100 beats per minute. This can occur due to stress, anxiety, cardiovascular diseases, or electrolyte imbalances.

• Bradycardia (Slow Heart Rate): The heart beats too slowly, typically under 60 beats per minute. Bradycardia can happen if there’s an issue with the sinoatrial node (the heart's natural pacemaker), or due to heart diseases like myocardial infarction or conduction disorders.

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2. Coronary Artery Disease

Coronary artery disease occurs when the arteries supplying blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked by cholesterol plaques. This can lead to irregular heartbeats, chest pain, or even a heart attack.

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3. Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT)

SVT is a rapid heart rate that starts in the upper chambers of the heart (the atria). SVT can cause the heart to beat very fast, often over 150 beats per minute, leading to feelings of palpitations, dizziness, or fainting.

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4. Cardiomyopathy

Cardiomyopathy is a condition where the heart muscle weakens, reducing its ability to pump blood efficiently. Weak heart muscles can lead to arrhythmias, including both fast and slow heart rates, and can be dangerous if not treated promptly.

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5. Heart Valve Disease

Heart valve problems, such as mitral valve prolapse or valve stenosis, can cause irregular heartbeats. When the heart valves do not work properly, blood may flow backward or insufficiently, leading to irregular or fast heart rhythms.

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6. Electrolyte Imbalance

Abnormal levels of electrolytes (such as potassium, calcium, or sodium) in the body can affect the electrical conduction system of the heart, leading to abnormal heart rhythms like fast or slow heartbeats.

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When Should You See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention:

• Heartbeats that are too fast, too slow, or irregular.

• Dizziness, fainting, difficulty breathing.

• Chest pain or tightness.

• Feeling excessively anxious or palpitations.

You should see a doctor to get tested and diagnosed. Early diagnosis will help in timely treatment and reduce the risk of serious complications such as stroke, heart failure, or cardiac arrest.