Understand Your Risk for Arrhythmia
Some changes in heart rate and rhythm are normal during sleep, physical activity and moments of stress.
But other times, an abnormal heart rhythm, or arrhythmia, may be a serious problem. Untreated arrhythmias, such as tachycardia or atrial fibrillation (AFib or AF), can have serious consequences, including cardiac arrest and stroke.
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Are you at risk?
Risk factors for arrhythmia include:
Heart disease. Some types of heart disease, such as high blood pressure, are risk factors for AFib, which is a type of arrhythmia. Scarring or abnormal tissue deposits can also cause bradycardia (slow heart rate) or tachycardia (rapid heart rate) by interfering with the heart’s electrical system.
Age. The prevalence of arrhythmia and AFib increases with age.
Congenital defects. Certain conditions present from birth may make a person prone to arrhythmia. For example, a congenital heart defect that affects the heart’s built-in electrical system can cause bradycardia. And those born with extra electrical pathways can be prone to tachycardia.
Occupational hazards. Exposure to chemicals such as welding fumes, gases and pesticides may be harmful and can cause arrhythmias, sometimes with serious consequences. Stress related to physical or occupational hazards can also cause arrhythmias.
Minerals. Minerals such as potassium, magnesium and calcium play a vital role in the heart’s normal function. But those same minerals may cause arrhythmias when their levels are too high or too low.
Lifestyle habits. Certain lifestyle habits including drinking alcohol, smoking cigarettes and using illegal drugs, such as cocaine and amphetamines, can also cause arrhythmias.
Medications. Many widely used medications may cause or worsen a variety of arrhythmias. Various heart medications may even cause arrhythmia.
Other factors. Talk to your health care professional to learn what you can do to control other factors that may lead to arrhythmia. These include:
- Reducing high blood pressure
- Controlling cholesterol levels
- Losing excess weight
- Eating a heart-healthy diet
- Doing regular physical activity
Talk to your health care professional
Know your risk factors and talk to your health care professional to lessen your chances of arrhythmia or to treat it if it occurs.
Being aware of arrhythmia, its dangers and risks can give you the upper hand when it comes to heart health.
