Heart rhythm disorders, one of the diseases that our hospital's cardiology clinic deals with, occur when the heart, which pumps blood to our body and is one of our most important organs, does not work properly and affects the life functions of the individual.

What is Heart Rhythm Disorder?

Heart rhythm disorder, also called arrhythmia, is a condition in which the heart, which works in a certain order, works differently than normal for various reasons. In these cases, the heart may work too fast (tachycardia), too slowly (bradycardia), or irregularly, pausing. Although arrhythmias are generally harmless and can be treated well, they can also be fatal. Heart rhythm disorders are divided into different types depending on the irregularity of the heartbeat and the way its speed is affected: Tachycardia Tachycardia, one of the most common rhythm disorders, is a heart rate above 100 beats per minute. Although tachycardia patients generally experience short-term palpitations, when the heart works too fast, blood pressure drops, fainting or shortness of breath may occur.

Sinus tachycardia Sinus tachycardia is the heart rhythm that constantly beats over 100 as a result of excitement, stress, physical activity, trauma or similar situations. Even if sinus tachycardia that occurs due to physical activities is considered normal, a doctor should be consulted. Ventricular tachycardia is the rapid beating of the pulse in the ventricular chambers of the heart. While the normal heart rate is between 60-100, if there is ventricular tachycardia, the heart rate can be between 200-250. As a result of such a fast heartbeat, serious health problems may occur because the ventricles are not filled with sufficient blood.

What are the causes of heart rhythm disorders?

Although people with heart disease are generally at risk, it is not just a disease that affects them. First of all, examinations should be performed to understand how and why this disease occurs. Thyroid gland disorders, anemia, imbalance of potassium, magnesium, sodium values, some hormonal diseases, etc. While it can be seen due to diseases, it can also be caused by stress, alcohol, some drugs and various stimulants. Symptoms of Heart Rhythm Disorder Although arrhythmia is not always harmful and does not reveal itself, it may sometimes require urgent intervention. Common symptoms are as follows: Palpitations Shortness of breath Chest pain Fainting Dizziness, light-headedness Feeling of emptiness Feeling of a bird fluttering in the chest Diagnosis of Heart Rhythm Disorder If the patient's complaints have been ongoing for a long time, taking a holter ECG or electrocardiography (ECG) in the first place after examination may help in making the diagnosis. . It can be performed for patients with frequent complaints (24 hours, 48 hours, 72 hours, 1 week).

In addition, examinations such as echocardiography (ECHO) and stress test may be useful for diagnosis. Treatment of Heart Rhythm Disorder Although it does not generally cause serious consequences, it can cause conditions such as heart failure, stroke, and sudden death. Once the underlying cause is found, an appropriate treatment method can be chosen and the heart rhythm disorder can end as a result of the treatment. Methods such as medications, electrical treatments, angiography, (catheter ablation) are used. In some patients, surgery or a pacemaker may be required. When necessary, our cardiologist will cooperate with other units related to the disease and will determine the most appropriate treatment method for you after the correct diagnosis.