- By Iram Hussain
- Tue, 01 Apr 2025 04:30 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Heart issues are on the rise in India which is attributed to growing stress levels, physical inactivity and unhealthy diets. Heart-related diseases are on the increase and irregular heartbeat or arrhythmia is gaining prominence as a major issue. Recognition of irregular heartbeat symptoms may be vital to avoid complications such as a heart attack or stroke.
In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr. Bhupendra Singh, Consultant – Cardiology, Manipal Hospital, Ghaziabad listed warning signs of an irregular heartbeat that one should not ignore.
What Is An Irregular Heartbeat?
An abnormal heartbeat, also known as arrhythmia is an unusual electrical heart impulse that results in an unusually fast, unusually slow or irregular heartbeat. Occasional irregularity is usual and not dangerous but a continuous or repetitive irregular heartbeat may indicate a cardiac condition. A normal heart has a regular rhythm, pumping blood properly throughout the body. If the heartbeat is irregular, this capability is lost, which can lead to serious health issues.
Signs And Symptoms Of An Irregular Heartbeat
Palpitations- The feeling that one’s heart is racing or throbbing.
Light-headedness Or Dizziness- The heartbeat irregularity cuts down the blood supply to the brain.
Difficulty Breathing- A difficulty where the body cannot acquire an ample supply of oxygen for the heart to perform its regular functioning.
Chest Pain Or Discomfort- This may be a sign that the heart is stressed or having trouble pumping blood properly.
Fatigue- If the heart is not pumping well, the body can feel abnormally weak or tired.
What Causes Arrhythmia?
Heart Disease- Diseases such as coronary artery disease or past heart attacks can harm the heart's electrical system, causing arrhythmia.
High Blood Pressure- Overpressure in the arteries may force the heart to labour, impacting its rhythm.
Lifestyle Factors- Too much caffeine, alcohol, tobacco or illicit drugs can initiate abnormal heartbeats.
Stress And Anxiety- Emotional stress affects the electrical signals of the heart, causing arrhythmias.
Electrolyte Imbalances- A disturbance in electrolytes, like potassium or magnesium, is responsible for disrupting the normal electrical impulses of the heart.
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