The question "What type of arrhythmia is often fatal?" can be answered in two parts: the types of arrhythmias that may be fatal, and the treatment of arrhythmias that may be fatal.
Types of Arrhythmias That May Be Fatal
The most common type of arrhythmia that can be fatal is ventricular fibrillation. This is when the lower chambers of the heart beat in an erratic and uncoordinated way. It can cause the heart to stop pumping blood to the body, leading to sudden cardiac death. Other types of potentially fatal arrhythmias include atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, ventricular tachycardia, and torsades de pointes.
Treatment of Arrhythmias That May Be Fatal
Treatment of potentially fatal arrhythmias will depend on the type of arrhythmia and the patient's overall health. Treatment options may include medications, electrical cardioversion, or implantable devices such as pacemakers or defibrillators. It is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible if you suspect you may be suffering from a potentially fatal arrhythmia.