Achi news desk-
Irregular heart rhythms can occur in young people for various reasons and can have significant implications for heart health and general well-being
Dr Rakesh Sarkar, Senior Consultant, Department of Cardiology and Electrophysiology, BM Birla Heart Research Center shares everything you need to know about irregular heart rhythm in young adults
Irregular heart rhythms, which are part of cardiac arrhythmias, can affect individuals of all ages, including young people. Although most of the time the symptoms may seem benign, they can have significant implications for heart health and general well-being. Probably, out of every 100 heart patients, you can assume that 40 patients will definitely have some kind of heart beat problem which is mainly related to irregular heartbeat.
Q. What are some common causes of Irregular Heart Rhythm?
A. Irregular heart rhythms generally occur because uncontrolled electrical activity is generated from an unusual location leading to disruption of the heart’s normal electrical signals eg atrial fibrillation, ventricular arrhythmia etc. , underlying medical conditions, side effect of medicine, genetic predispositions, lifestyle factors, or even stress and anxiety.
Rhythm disorders can also arise due to non-cardiac problems, such as patients with lung disease or electrolyte imbalances such as variations in sodium and potassium levels. Sometimes, a very fast regular heartbeat that lasts for a short time can also be considered irregular. Fatal abnormal electrical activity generated from the upper chamber of the heart, known as the atrium, is relatively non-lethal while activity from the lower chamber or ventricle is often dangerous. This can be detected by feeling a drop or missed pulse when checking the patient’s pulse.
Q. What are the common symptoms of an Irregular Heart Rhythm?
A. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of irregular heart rhythms is essential for early detection and intervention. Common symptoms in young individuals may include palpitations (sensations of rapid heartbeat, shuffling, or palpitations), dizziness or lightheadedness, fainting spells (syncope), chest discomfort, shortness of breath, and fatigue. It is important to note that some arrhythmias can be asymptomatic or unnoticed, making them challenging to diagnose without a medical evaluation.
Q. How can Irregular Heart Rhythm be treated?
A. When evaluating a young person with suspected arrhythmia, health care providers may use various diagnostic tests to assess heart rhythm and function. These may include an electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG), a Holter monitor (a portable device for continuous heart rhythm monitoring), an event recorder (a device worn for longer periods to capture intermittent arrhythmias), an echocardiogram (ultrasound imaging of the heart) , and in some cases. cases, in a cardiac catheterization laboratory by electrophysiology studies.
Another effective way to treat irregular heart rhythms is through an Electrophysiology Laboratory (EP) which is a specialized facility equipped to perform diagnostic and interventional procedures related to cardiac arrhythmias. In the EP laboratory, healthcare professionals, usually cardiologists who specialize in electrophysiology, use advanced equipment and technology to diagnose and treat various heart rhythm disorders. These procedures include electrophysiological studies (EPS), which involve mapping the electrical activity of the heart, as well as therapeutic interventions such as radiofrequency ablation (RFA) to correct abnormal electrical pathways in the heart tissue.
Q. How can Irregular Heart Rhythm be prevented among young people?
A. Treatment for irregular heart rhythms in young people depends on the type, severity and underlying cause of the arrhythmia. In many cases, lifestyle modifications such as reducing stress, exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy diet, and avoiding stimulants such as caffeine and nicotine can help manage symptoms. In addition, medicines may be prescribed to control heart rate and rhythm.
Irregular heart rhythms can occur in young people for various reasons and can have significant implications for heart health and general well-being. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of arrhythmia is essential for early detection and intervention. With advances in diagnostic tools and treatment options, young individuals with irregular heart rhythms can receive appropriate care to effectively manage their condition and live healthy, fulfilling lives.
