Two of the most lethal heart rhythms, or arrhythmias, are ventricular fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia.
Ventricular fibrillation is a very rapid, chaotic rhythm that causes the ventricles to quiver instead of pumping blood. This arrhythmia is usually caused by a disruption in the electrical conduction system of the heart, and can be triggered by a heart attack, high levels of stress hormones, or an abnormal heart muscle. If left untreated, it can lead to cardiac arrest and death.
Ventricular tachycardia is a rapid heartbeat caused by abnormal electrical signals in the ventricles of the heart. It can occur in people with structurally normal hearts or those with underlying heart diseases. This type of arrhythmia can also lead to sudden cardiac death if not treated quickly. Because the heart is unable to pump enough blood to the body, the patient may experience symptoms such as chest pain, dizziness, and fainting.
Both ventricular fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia can be treated with medications, implantable devices, or ablation techniques. Immediate medical attention is necessary for these arrhythmias, as they can be fatal if not treated promptly.