What are Arrhythmias?
Arrhythmias are abnormal heart rhythms that occur when the electrical signals that control your heart rate don't work properly. Arrhythmias can cause your heart to beat too quickly, too slowly, or irregularly.
The Six Most Common Arrhythmias
The six most common arrhythmias are Atrial Fibrillation (AFib), Ventricular Fibrillation (VFib), Atrial Flutter (AFlutter), Premature Ventricular Contractions (PVCs), Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT), and Ventricular Tachycardia (VT).
Atrial Fibrillation (AFib)
Atrial fibrillation is an irregular and often rapid heart rate caused by chaotic electrical activity in the atria. It is the most common arrhythmia, affecting millions of people worldwide. AFib can cause lightheadedness, chest pain, and shortness of breath.
Ventricular Fibrillation (VFib)
Ventricular fibrillation is a life-threatening arrhythmia caused by chaotic electrical activity in the ventricles. It can cause sudden cardiac arrest and is often fatal.
Atrial Flutter (AFlutter)
Atrial flutter is an arrhythmia characterized by a rapid and regular heartbeat caused by chaotic electrical activity in the atria. It can cause palpitations and shortness of breath.
Premature Ventricular Contractions (PVCs)
Premature ventricular contractions are extra heartbeats that occur before the normal beat. They can cause a sensation of skipped or extra beats in the chest.
Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT)
Supraventricular tachycardia is an arrhythmia characterized by a rapid and regular heartbeat caused by chaotic electrical activity in the atria or ventricles. It can cause palpitations, lightheadedness, and shortness of breath.
Ventricular Tachycardia (VT)
Ventricular tachycardia is an arrhythmia characterized by a rapid and regular heartbeat caused by chaotic electrical activity in the ventricles. It can cause chest pain, lightheadedness, and shortness of breath.