What Are Arrhythmias?

An arrhythmia is an irregular heartbeat. It means your heart may beat too fast, too slow, or unevenly. These changes affect how well your heart moves blood through your body.

The most common types include:

  • AFib (Atrial Fibrillation) – fast, irregular heartbeat from the top chambers
  • SVT (Supraventricular Tachycardia) – rapid heartbeat from the upper part of the heart
  • Bradycardia – slow heartbeat
  • Ventricular arrhythmias – faster rhythms that start in the lower chambers

These are the main answers to: what are the 4 types of arrhythmias?

What Causes Arrhythmias?

Arrhythmias can be caused by problems in the heart’s electrical signals. These may be triggered by:

  • High blood pressure
  • Past heart surgery
  • Tachycardia after heart surgery
  • Afib after valve replacement
  • Atrial fibrillation after heart bypass
  • Stress or anxiety
  • Alcohol, caffeine, or stimulant use
  • Aging or heart tissue damage
  • Heart palpitations and anxiety
  • Afib episodes at night

Some people also experience afib following open heart surgery, often during the recovery period.

Arrhythmias (AFib, SVT)

Symptoms of Arrhythmia

Signs of arrhythmia can vary. Some people feel nothing. Others may have:

  • Fluttering or pounding in the chest

  • Dizziness or lightheadedness

  • Chest pressure or pain
  • Afib and heart palpitations

  • Heart flutter and cough
  • Fainting spells
  • High heart rate when resting
  • Uneven pulse
  • Feeling like your heart skips a beat

These are common irregular heartbeat symptoms and may happen once or come and go over time.

Is Arrhythmia Dangerous?

It can be. Some arrhythmias are harmless. Others increase the risk of serious problems.

AFib, for example, can raise stroke risk because blood may pool and form clots. Many people with AFib and blood thinners reduce this risk. If untreated, AFib can also lead to heart failure.

Fatal arrhythmia symptoms may involve fast, unsteady heartbeats, shortness of breath, or loss of consciousness. These need emergency care.

If you’re wondering, when should I be worried about an irregular heartbeat? It’s anytime the symptoms are new, strong, or don’t go away.

How Are Arrhythmias Diagnosed?

Doctors find arrhythmias using:

  • EKG (electrocardiogram)
  • Holter monitor
  • At-home trackers for monitoring AFib at home
  • Stress test
  • Imaging to check for heart damage
  • Review of past procedures like afib after valve replacement or bypass surgery

How Are Arrhythmias Treated?

Arrhythmia treatment depends on the type and how it affects your body. Options include:

  • Medicine to control heart rate or rhythm
  • Blood thinners to prevent stroke from AFib
  • Electrical procedures like cardioversion
  • Catheter ablation to remove problem areas
  • Lifestyle changes (less caffeine, more rest)
  • In some cases, a pacemaker is used. People often ask, “Does AFib require a pacemaker?” — not always, but it may help in some cases.

People also ask: Can you exercise with AFib? Yes, but check with your doctor. Gentle, regular activity is usually safe and helpful.

This is where BaleDoneen can assist with Arrhythmias (AFib, SVT).

We help patients detect arrhythmias early, track their symptoms, and manage risks like stroke or heart failure. Our method uses advanced testing and builds a care plan based on your heart’s needs.

Living With AFib or SVT

Many people with AFib live normal lives with the right care. Others find relief with a mix of medicine, lifestyle change, and heart rhythm procedures.

Some people try natural support, including the best supplements for AFib like magnesium, fish oil, or potassium. Always talk to your doctor before using supplements.

AFib doesn’t go away for everyone, but it can often be controlled.

Some people ask, “How I cured my arrhythmia?” The answer depends on the type. Some arrhythmias stop with treatment. Others need long-term care.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main cause of arrhythmia?

What are the 4 types of arrhythmias?

When should I be worried about an irregular heartbeat?

How I cured my arrhythmia

Is arrhythmia dangerous?