Heart rhythm

Heart rhythm refers to the regular or irregular beats made by the heart as it pumps blood around the body. The heart's rhythm is controlled by electrical signals sent across heart tissues. A healthy heart rhythm is essential for proper blood flow and overall health.

Overview

The heart is a muscular organ that pumps blood throughout the body. It does this by contracting and relaxing in a regular rhythm. This rhythm is controlled by electrical signals that travel through the heart muscle. When the heart's rhythm is regular, it is called a normal sinus rhythm. When it is irregular, it is called an arrhythmia.

Normal Heart Rhythm

A normal heart rhythm, or sinus rhythm, is a regular rhythm of the heart that is initiated in the sinus node, the heart's natural pacemaker. The sinus node sends out an electrical signal that travels through the heart muscle, causing it to contract and pump blood. The normal heart rate for adults is between 60 and 100 beats per minute.

Arrhythmias

An arrhythmia is an irregular heart rhythm. Arrhythmias can occur in the upper chambers of the heart, called the atria, or in the lower chambers, called the ventricles. Arrhythmias can cause the heart to beat too fast, too slow, or irregularly. Some arrhythmias are harmless, but others can be life-threatening.

Types of Arrhythmias

There are several types of arrhythmias, including:

• Atrial fibrillation: This is a rapid, irregular rhythm in the atria. It can cause symptoms such as palpitations, shortness of breath, and fatigue.
• Ventricular fibrillation: This is a rapid, irregular rhythm in the ventricles. It is a medical emergency that can cause sudden cardiac arrest.
• Bradycardia: This is a slow heart rate, usually less than 60 beats per minute.
• Tachycardia: This is a fast heart rate, usually more than 100 beats per minute.

Treatment

Treatment for arrhythmias depends on the type and severity of the arrhythmia. Some arrhythmias may not require treatment. Others may be treated with medications, medical procedures, or devices such as a pacemaker or an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD).

See Also

• Cardiology
• Electrocardiogram
• Heart disease
• Pacemaker

Heart rhythm Resources
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