Millions of people experience irregular heartbeats, called arrhythmias, at some point in their lives. Most of the time, they are harmless and happen in healthy people free of heart disease. However, some abnormal heart rhythms can be serious or even deadly.
Heart Disease Categories
Electrical: Abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias) are caused by problems with the electrical system that regulates the steady heartbeat. The heart rate may be too slow or too fast; it may stay steady or become chaotic (irregular and disorganized). Some arrhythmias are very dangerous and cause sudden cardiac death, while others may be bothersome but not life threatening.
Circulatory: High blood pressure and coronary artery disease (blockage in the pipes of the heart) are the main causes of blood vessel disorders. The results, such as stroke or heart attack, can be devastating. Fortunately, there are many treatment options.
Structural: Heart muscle disease (cardiomyopathy) and congenital abnormalities (problems present from birth) are two problems that can damage the heart muscle or valves.
Symptoms of a heart attack can include:
Discomfort, pressure, heaviness, or pain in the chest, arm, or below the breastbone.
Discomfort radiating to the back, jaw, throat, or arm.
Fullness, indigestion, or choking feeling (may feel like heartburn).
Sweating, nausea, vomiting, or dizziness.
Extreme weakness, anxiety, or shortness of brea.
Rapid or irregular heartbeats.
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