Arrhythmia is a change in heart rhythm where the heart, instead of beating at regular intervals and with the same intensity, beats irregularly, or in an accelerated or slowed manner. These episodes usually last only a few seconds or minutes and, in many cases, are not even noticed.
In most cases of arrhythmia, there is no health risk. Most of them disappear spontaneously, generate few symptoms, and improve with some lifestyle change measures such as regular physical activity, a good night's sleep, eliminating cigarettes and drinks, avoiding the use of energizers and or stimulants such as coffee.
However, there are also arrhythmias considered malignant which, when not properly treated, can cause cardiac arrest, putting life at risk if there is no immediate medical help.
When the arrhythmia can be severe
Arrhythmia can be considered severe or malignant when it arises due to a change in the electrical functioning of the heart or when the heart muscle is affected by a disease. In these cases, the cause is more difficult to avoid and, therefore, there is a greater risk that the rhythm will change for a longer time, increasing the chances of cardiac arrest, for example.
In addition, in people with atrial fibrillation, there is also a risk of clots forming, which can come off and reach the brain causing a stroke.
What should be done
In any case of arrhythmia, it is very important to make a thorough medical evaluation to identify the cause and start the most appropriate treatment. In some cases, it is only necessary to avoid some substances, while in others it may be necessary to take antiarrhythmic drugs or even to place some devices such as implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD), pacemaker, among others. Better understand the treatment options for arrhythmia.
