Heart rhythm disturbances: causes, symptoms, treatment. Heart rhythm disturbances: causes. What's your factor? Find out now

Heart rhythm disturbances (arrhythmias) are conditions in which the frequency, rhythm and sequence of contractions of the heart muscle changes.

Normally, these processes are regulated by the conduction system of the heart. The electrical impulse is generated in the sinus node, which is located in the right atrium. From there, the impulses go to the next node, located between the atrium and the ventricle, and then along the bundle of His and its legs - to the right and left ventricles. As a result, cardiac contraction occurs.

Heart rhythm disturbances can be caused by changes that occur in any part of the conduction system. Accordingly, atrial, atrioventricular and ventricular arrhythmias are distinguished.
Most often, rhythm disturbances occur in various functional and organic diseases. of cardio-vascular system, endocrine disorders (and primarily in diseases of the thyroid gland), autonomic disorders, intoxications.

Symptoms of heart rhythm disturbances

• Palpitations (the person feels that the heart is beating loudly in the chest)
• Increased heart rate more than 90 beats per minute (tachycardia) or slower than 60 beats per minute (bradycardia)
• A feeling of periodic “fading” of the heart, interruptions in its work - with extrasystole
• A sudden disruption of the heart rhythm (the heart is “pounding furiously in the chest”) - an attack of paroxysmal tachycardia
• The appearance of dizziness, general weakness, fainting due to heart rhythm disturbances
• Arrhythmia may be accompanied by pain in the heart area, shortness of breath
• Often concomitant neurotic disorders develop: anxiety, a feeling of fear of death, panic

Main types of arrhythmia

• Tachycardia is an increase in heart rate at rest above 90 beats per minute. This condition often occurs normally in a healthy person during physical and psycho-emotional stress and quickly passes after a short rest and relaxation. Persistent tachycardia appears in acute period infectious diseases(including influenza and acute respiratory infections), heart diseases (myocarditis, heart failure), intoxication, anemia
• Paroxysmal tachycardia – sudden attack rapid heartbeat with a frequency of 140-240 beats per minute (“rhythm failure”), which occurs with severe stress and heart disease. An attack of cardiac arrhythmia may spontaneously end in a few seconds or minutes, or may continue for hours, worsening general health accompanied by weakness, fainting and without timely assistance, death may occur
• Bradycardia is a decrease in heart rate to 60 beats per minute or lower. In healthy people, bradycardia can occur during rest, during sleep, and also on an ongoing basis in well-trained individuals involved in sports (especially runners, rowers, swimmers, skiers). A heart rate of 40-60 beats per minute may be a sign of vegetative-vascular dystonia, organic heart disease (myocarditis, cardiosclerosis, myocardial infarction), hypothyroidism, some viral diseases, intoxications. With heart blocks, the heart rate can often be below 40 beats per minute. This state represents real threat life without timely installation of a pacemaker ends sadly.
• Atrial fibrillation is an abnormal heart rhythm caused by atrial fibrillation. In this case, the pulse varies in filling and frequency and varies from 100 to 150 beats per minute. The cause of atrial fibrillation is mitral heart defects, angina pectoris, thyrotoxicosis, alcoholic cardiomyopathy. Without treatment, atrial fibrillation often leads to the formation of blood clots and the development of pulmonary embolism, coronary and cerebral circulation disorders.
• Extrasystoles are periodic extraordinary contractions of the heart. These heart rhythm disturbances most often occur, both in healthy people and in intoxications, neurotic disorders. Extrasystoles can be atrial, atrioventricular, or ventricular. With rare functional extrasystoles, no treatment is usually required. Frequent (more than 5 extrasystoles per minute), polymorphic, early and other potentially dangerous extrasystoles require emergency care.

Diagnosis of heart rhythm disturbances

• Study of anamnesis, complaints, objective medical examination with examination of the pulse (its frequency, rhythm, filling) on ​​radiation and carotid arteries, its comparison with heart contractions during auscultation
• Electrocardiographic examination (ECG), including under load (bicycle ergometry, treadmill test)
• Long-term ECG recording (Holter monitoring)
• Electrophysiological study of the heart (intracardiac or transesophageal ECG)
• Laboratory research (study electrolyte metabolism, hormonal status, etc.)

Your attending physician will tell you in detail about the need to treat arrhythmia, recommended medications, and the possibility of using surgical intervention. Along with the recommendations of a cardiologist, it can be used, with his consent, in case of heart rhythm disturbances and healing herbs, acupressure, physical therapy exercises. These methods will be discussed in the following articles.

The heart is an organ that can tremble with happiness and freeze with fear. It all depends on the emotions that a person is currently experiencing. But if disruptions in our internal rhythm have become a frequent occurrence, then there is a problem with it. Let's consider what arrhythmia is, its types, symptoms, diagnostic methods, treatment methods, and preventive measures.

What is cardiac arrhythmia

This medical term is not yet a diagnosis, but rather a symptom characteristic of many types of cardiac pathologies. Usually the heart rate slows down (bradycardia) or increases in speed (tachycardia). Both conditions require medical supervision. Such changes do not disappear on their own, but they can lead to death.

Causes of heart rhythm disturbances

The unevenness and irregularity of myocardial contractions manifests itself in different ways: from a slight deterioration in health to cardiac arrest. Our “motor” works continuously, contracting 60 to 80 times per minute. The rhythm is disrupted due to traumatic brain injuries, stress, and lack of rest. Arrhythmias occur during acute rheumatic fever, arterial hypertension, coronary disease, myocarditis.

Among the provoking factors:

• uncontrolled use of medications;
• regular intoxication;
• obesity;
• diabetes;
• dysfunction of the thyroid gland, leading to both a decrease and an increase in heart rate;
• women's diseases;
• Osteochondrosis of the cervicothoracic region is a pressing problem for those who sit at an office desk most of the time;
• abuse of fried, fatty foods, chocolate, coffee, “energy” drinks.

Electrolyte imbalance triggers the mechanism of arrhythmia due to changes in myocardial contractility and stability.

Classification

The most frequent violation is atrial fibrillation, which affects about 5% of those over 60 years of age. It is characterized not by the full functioning of the atria, but only by their erratic twitching. Ventricular contractions are more frequent and chaotic. In this case, the causes of cardiac arrhythmia are: ischemia, thyrotoxicosis, alcohol abuse, etc. Inadequate functioning of the atria provokes congestion, the formation of blood clots, which can break off and end up in the vessels of the brain and lead to.

Taking blood thinners helps slow down the pulse, after which a person lives peacefully with a rhythm of 60-75 beats per minute. At small dosages, such drugs do not work; if exceeded, they cause bleeding and stroke. Therefore, their intake must be coordinated with a doctor and, at the same time, blood clotting indicators must be checked using a special INR analysis. It is performed once every 1-2 months according to a scheme selected by the doctor for each specific situation.

In the case of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation, the pulse recovers on its own. This happens in a few hours. If there is no effect, you need to call an ambulance as quickly as possible so that doctors have time to correct the situation for the better.

Tachycardia

A condition when the resting pulse exceeds 90 beats/min. Provocateurs can be:

• neuroses;
• anemia;
• thyroid dysfunction;
• heart failure;
• myocarditis;
• elevated temperature bodies.

In arrhythmology, there are several forms of tachycardia:

• Ventricular fibrillation with immediate loss of consciousness and possible death.
• Supraventricular, a fairly safe variety that often does not remind of itself for years.

Only a specialist can make an accurate diagnosis, assess the risks, and, after a thorough examination, select the optimal treatment methods for the given situation.

Bradycardia

Reduction of heart rate to 60 beats per minute. Occur if:

• taking certain medications;
• viral infections;
• decreased activity of the thyroid gland;
• increased intracranial pressure;
• weakness of the sinus node, as an age-related change in the myocardium, characteristic of people over 60 years of age;
• heart attack;
• cardiopsychoneurosis.

The condition is accompanied by dizziness, loss of consciousness, and weakness.

A patient with this diagnosis is prescribed a pacemaker or an artificial pacemaker. The place of its implantation is the left subclavian region. The device produces an impulse that stimulates contractile activity myocardium. It works for 7-8 years until the battery runs out.

Estrasystole

Extraordinary contractions of the heart. Observed in ischemia, damage to the heart valves, myocardial diseases. Occurs in children and adolescents. In healthy adults are associated with large doses coffee, strong tea, alcohol, emotional overload. When refusing provoking factors discomfort in the area of ​​the heart disappear. With estracystole of organic origin, serious pathologies affecting the endocrine system are possible, as well as hypertension, heart failure, myocarditis, rheumatic heart disease, myocardial infarction, ischemia. Estracystoles are considered by arrhythmologists as harbingers of severe conditions leading to sudden death, including ventricular fibrillation and flutter, paroxysmal increased heart rate.

Symptoms of cardiac arrhythmia

The clinical picture depends on the type of condition:

• Tachycardia is characterized by restlessness, anxiety, causeless increased sweating, complaints that a heartbeat can be heard, especially at night. There is a high probability of frequent loss of consciousness.
• With bradycardia, the slightest effort causes fatigue, performance decreases, and fainting occurs. Worried severe dizziness with darkening of the eyes, pale skin, “cold sweat.” No special therapy is used. Chamomile tea, ginseng tincture, massage, etc. are useful.
• Estrasystole is characterized by extraordinary beats of the heart with short-term fading. Correction of nutrition and lifestyle, treatment of the underlying disease are recommended.

The most striking symptoms of heart rhythm disturbances are characteristic of atrial fibrillation. The patient suffers from constant hypoxia, shortness of breath, tension, and anxiety. “Heart block” is possible with a decrease or complete disappearance of the pulse, convulsions, and loss of consciousness.

Arrhythmia during pregnancy

A common occurrence associated with hemodynamic and hormonal changes that aggravate or cause existing heart problems in women. This is grounds for observation by a cardiologist. Usually does not require either termination of pregnancy or special treatment. Severe cases are rare.

Diagnosis of the disease

The most common method in arrhythmology is ECG or electrocardiography, as well as testing using physical activity on an exercise bike or treadmill. If necessary, the dynamics of blood pressure and ECG are observed for several days to determine the type of arrhythmia. To obtain additional information and select the optimal treatment tactics, the most reliable tool is used in the form of an electrophysiological study of the heart (EPS). Laboratory tests include OAM, UAC, determination of sugar levels, essential minerals in plasma, and cholesterol spectrum.

Treatment of cardiac arrhythmia

Arrhythmia therapy is the most complex branch of cardiology. The reason is the huge variety of their modifications, for each of which an individual treatment regimen is selected. In addition, sudden forms require urgent medical intervention. Specialists have many gentle, low-traumatic techniques in their arsenal to normalize the condition. They are indicated for subjective intolerance of arrhythmias, as well as severe hemodynamic disturbances. Rational psychotherapy techniques are used in cases where the clinical picture is unclear and there are no complaints from the patient. Your doctor may recommend:

• Taking potassium channel blockers, calcium antagonists in order to influence the processes of excitation into the myocardium and normalize heart rhythm. All drugs of similar action are divided into 4 groups. The greatest effect is achieved after taking their combinations. Normal sinus rhythm is restored with the use of a number of medications, such as Quinidine, Novocainamide, Propafenone, Amiodarone.
• Supraventricular forms of tachycardia, ventricular fibrillation and flutter are managed using electrocardioversion.
• Implantation of a pacemaker - a small device that produces electrical impulses, or a defibrillator - a device for restoring the pulse in critical situations.
• Catheter ablation is the removal by high-frequency current of tissue that has become the source of arrhythmia, including atrial fibrillation. It is used for all forms of tachycardia when conservative treatment has proven ineffective. As a result, the patient is partially freed from taking antiarrhythmic compounds. It is carried out using new technologies that allow you to examine the heart with an extremely accurate image.
• Surgical intervention.

During the treatment process, the patient must strictly adhere to all the doctor’s recommendations and report changes in his health.

With a pulse of 40 beats per minute, a person may faint due to brain hypoxia. Before the doctor arrives, the patient can be given 10 drops of Zelenin, a combined herbal medicine with antispasmodic action. Contains menthol, valerian, lily of the valley, belladonna. Judging by the reviews, they provoke allergies, headache, diarrhea, drowsiness, heartburn. Affects mental and motor reactions. Caution is required when operating vehicles and complex machinery. No other medications should be taken to prevent benign arrhythmia from developing into its malignant form. Bradycardia requires clarification of the diagnosis and examination by a specialist.

Rapid heartbeat is an equally dangerous sign that requires immediate attention. medical care. Before the ambulance arrives, the victim must be kept at rest and given Valocordin or Corvalol.

If you ignore the pathology, then you need to be prepared for the following problems, including:

• frequent headache;
• hypotension with weakness, fainting, feeling of “fading” of the heart;
• dyspnea.

If these symptoms occur, you must urgently consult a cardiologist to avoid heart attack, thrombosis, stroke and other serious conditions.

Folk remedies

Non-traditional methods are part of general therapy. They are used when rhythm disturbances are not dangerous to human health or when it is necessary to support the patient in the period between attacks. They cope with the following tasks:

• Infusion of 40 g of lovage roots and 1 liter of water. Leave for 8 hours, then drink the entire volume.
• A tasty medicine made from dill, parsley and celery, seasoned with a little salt and mayonnaise.
• A mixture of chopped apple and onion (1:1). The course of treatment is a month according to the regimen 2 times a day.
• Adonis spring tincture. Take 15 drops three times a day. At the same time, drink diuretics to remove cardiac glycosides from the body.

If diagnosed with heart rhythm disturbances, treatment folk remedies can be safe and effective only if carried out under the supervision of a specialist.

Prevention

A patient with arrhythmia needs to reconsider his lifestyle, give up alcohol and smoking, eat right, and follow a work and rest schedule. Strictly follow the recommendations of the attending physician, take antiarrhythmic drugs prescribed by the doctor.

And the main thing is to wish for recovery, to rely on the doctor as your partner in the fight for healthy heart. Be calm and confident that together you can achieve success.

Atrial fibrillation is the most common form of heart rhythm disorder. It comes in several types. The most severe disorder is a permanent form of arrhythmia. This diagnosis is made if drug treatment of atrial fibrillation fails to achieve recovery. sinus rhythm. How to live with constant arrhythmia and what to do during an attack - these questions should be considered in more detail.

Persistent arrhythmia is a form of atrial fibrillation. The disease is characterized by paroxysmal character. Heart rhythm disturbances occur from time to time; the attack can last from 24 hours to 7 days.

The danger of atrial fibrillation in disruption of the sinus node

If restoration of sinus rhythm with the help of medications or electrical pulse therapy is ineffective, the disorder becomes chronic. This is the so-called permanent arrhythmia - the most severe stage of atrial fibrillation.

The essence of the disorder is a malfunction of the sinus node. Against this background, high-frequency impulses are generated in the atria and the filling of these sections with blood is disrupted. Over time, the pumping function of the atria decreases significantly, which entails a deterioration in the pumping function of the entire heart. As a rule, this process is long and lasts for several years.

There are several types of atrial fibrillation:

• paroxysmal;
• persistent;
• permanent (permanent).

The paroxysmal form of atrial fibrillation is characterized by periodic attacks heart rhythm disturbances that rarely last longer than a day. In the persistent form of the disease, the duration of the attack can increase to seven days, during which a pronounced disturbance of the heart rhythm is observed. The three forms of atrial fibrillation, in fact, are stages of development or stages of progression of cardiac arrhythmia. Paroxysmal atrial fibrillation is the mildest form, permanent arrhythmia is the most severe.

At the first stage of the disorder, restoration of sinus rhythm occurs independently. At the second stage (persistent form), the heart rhythm also recovers on its own, but drug therapy and electrical stimulation are used to stop the attack.

A permanent form of arrhythmia is a condition in which the heart rhythm does not recover on its own, and drug methods do not bring the expected result.

Important! The permanent form of arrhythmia is not an independent disorder and does not occur spontaneously.

The main reason for the development of permanent arrhythmia is too frequent attacks of atrial fibrillation. Attacks of paroxysmal arrhythmia do not pass without leaving a trace. They gradually deplete the atria, causing the disorder to progress. Over time, the arrhythmia becomes persistent and then permanent. There is only one way to avoid this - timely detection of the initial form of arrhythmia and adequate therapy.

Risk factors

Older people are more susceptible to arrhythmia

Persistent cardiac arrhythmia is diagnosed in older people. The risk of its development increases if the patient has not treated paroxysmal arrhythmia. Risk factors include:

• irregularities in work nervous system;
• bad habits;
• long-term use of cardiac glycosides;
• constant vibration impacts associated with professional activities;
• arterial hypertension;
• diabetes mellitus type 2.

Availability chronic diseases, such as coronary heart disease (CHD), type 2 diabetes mellitus and hypertension, in the presence of atrial fibrillation greatly increase the risk of developing a chronic, or permanent, form of atrial fibrillation.

The main risk factor for the development of atrial fibrillation is disorders of the nervous system. Frequent stress, disturbances in the functioning of the autonomic nervous system, neuroses and sleep disorders are potentially dangerous for the development of arrhythmia in people over 40 years of age. Arrhythmia attacks can occur against the background nervous overstrain, so every person faced with pathological disorder heart rate, should be examined not only by a cardiologist, but also by a neurologist.

Persistent arrhythmia has a fairly clear clinical picture, but many patients prefer not to pay attention to the symptoms, attributing the malaise to age-related changes or fatigue.

Note! The first symptom of permanent arrhythmia is deterioration in health during physical activity.

With constant arrhythmia, a person always has an abnormal heart rhythm. However, the body gets used to working in this mode, so there may be no symptoms at rest. They worsen with physical activity. Moreover, the intensity of the load does not matter, since quite often malaise overtakes a person while performing simple household chores.

Characteristic symptoms of the disorder:

• dyspnea;
• nonproductive cough;
• fast fatiguability;
• dizziness;
• frequent fainting and pre-syncope;
• feeling your own heartbeat;
• pain in the heart area.

Shortness of breath may be a symptom of arrhythmia

Persistent arrhythmia can masquerade as angina. In this case, a person experiences severe pain behind the sternum during moments of stress or emotional stress. As a rule, physical activity is accompanied by an intensification of the attack, which can manifest itself as symptoms of panic attacks. Because of this, persistent arrhythmia is often mistaken for a hypertensive crisis. However, if a person measures his blood pressure during an attack, he will be able to notice a decrease in blood pressure, rather than the increase that is characteristic of a hypertensive crisis.

Permanent arrhythmia can be suspected independently if you listen to your own body. Her distinctive feature is a constantly irregular pulse that does not normalize at rest. The symptoms of persistent arrhythmia increase in the presence of other diseases of the cardiovascular system.

What will happen without treatment?

With constant atrial fibrillation, it develops chronic hypoxia tissues due to persistent circulatory disorders, as a result of which the tissues do not receive oxygen and nutrients in the required volume. Against this background, the course of existing chronic diseases of the cardiovascular system is aggravated.

The main risks of this violation:

• development of heart failure;
• blood clot formation;
• myocardial infarction;
• cerebral stroke;
• sudden cardiac death.

Statistics show that patients with persistent arrhythmia have heart attacks 5 times more often than people with other myocardial disorders. Every sixth heart attack ends fatally.

Persistent arrhythmia gradually worsens exercise tolerance. Over time, there is a risk that attacks will occur under any physical stress.

Diagnostics

If the patient has previously been diagnosed with atrial fibrillation, diagnosing a permanent form of the disorder will not be difficult. Diagnosis is carried out by:

• examination and auscultation (listening to heart sounds) of the patient;
• 24-hour heart rate monitoring.

Symptoms of persistent arrhythmia are largely similar to vegetative-vascular crises, aggravated by panic attacks, sinus tachycardia, atrial extrasystole. It is necessary to conduct a comprehensive examination to exclude these violations.

Atrial fibrillation is diagnosed through examinations

An ECG with constant atrial fibrillation is a fairly informative diagnostic method due to the peculiarities of changes in heart rhythm noticeable on the cardiogram.

Principles of treatment

Treatment of a permanent form of arrhythmia is aimed at normalizing the heart rate; the treatment method is selected at the discretion of the attending physician. As a rule, measures to restore sinus rhythm are not carried out due to their ineffectiveness for this form of arrhythmia.

Due to circulatory disorders, the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases increases, the likelihood of blood clots and thromboembolism increases, therefore medications that reduce the risks of complications are used in therapy.

The main groups of drugs used in the treatment of persistent arrhythmia:

• antiarrhythmic drugs;
• beta blockers;
• blockers calcium channels;
• cardiac glycosides.

In addition to drug treatment, electropulse therapy is used.

Antiarrhythmic drugs are prescribed quite rarely, since with constant arrhythmia they can cause deterioration in well-being and development dangerous consequences. Most often, doctors prefer beta blockers with a selective effect on the heart (Atenolol, Bisoprolol, Anaprilin) ​​and calcium channel blockers (Verapamil and Diltiazem). These drugs are taken together, the dosages are selected individually for each patient and depend on the body's response to taking this combination of drugs.

To reduce the risk of blood clots, it is prescribed acetylsalicylic acid and anticoagulants. Additionally, the doctor may prescribe sedatives.

Behavior during an attack

How to live with constant arrhythmia depends on how attentive the patient is to his own health. During an attack, the standard recommendation for arrhythmia applies: take the drug prescribed by the doctor for regular use. In this case, the dosage can be doubled.

If an attack of persistent arrhythmia lasts more than a day, it is necessary to call “ ambulance" Self-medication in this case can be harmful to health.

Forecast

Taking medications will help normalize the condition

With a permanent form of arrhythmia, the prognosis is conditionally unfavorable. This means that it will not be possible to get rid of the disease, and the patient will be forced to constantly take pills. However, subject to adequate drug therapy and careful attention to one’s own health, permanent atrial fibrillation will not affect life expectancy in any way. The problem is that the quality of life with this disease noticeably suffers.

The effectiveness of drug therapy for this disease is only 60%, and only if treatment is started no later than 2 years after the development of this pathology. Electropulse therapy is effective in 90% of cases in the first year of development of permanent arrhythmia. After several years of the disease, the effectiveness of this method decreases and becomes equal to the effect of drug therapy.

Patients who take medications regularly live life to the fullest, despite the constant form of arrhythmia. Changing your lifestyle will help improve your outlook for the future. For permanent arrhythmia it is necessary:

• get rid of cravings for nicotine and alcohol;
• adhere to a balanced diet;
• do not eat too fatty and spicy foods;
• undergo regular examinations;
• stick to the daily routine.

Patients with this diagnosis need to have an ECG every three months. You should be examined monthly by your attending physician to promptly identify negative dynamics of treatment.

Diseases of the cardiovascular system these days are in first place among other diseases. People of any age category suffer. An abnormal heart rhythm can be a precursor to a heart attack or stroke.

Heart rhythm disturbance is a human condition when there is a pathology of the contractile function of the heart muscle, which is responsible for the heartbeat. Normal rhythm is disrupted, the heart functions unstable. As a result, our “motor” beats very quickly or, conversely, slowly. There is a failure of cardiac functionality.

If a person is healthy, his heart beats at a speed of 75-100 beats per minute, in children up to 120 beats per minute. If the heart functions correctly, then a person “does not hear” it. If rhythm disturbances occur, a feeling of discomfort appears. According to statistics, every third person suffers from arrhythmia. In some cases, patients learn about their disease by undergoing a general examination.

Main reasons Heart rhythm disturbances include diseases of the cardiovascular system, high blood pressure, mental disorder, diabetes mellitus, stress, bad habits, and the use of large amounts of medications.

Arrhythmia is caused by improper functioning of certain body functions:

• Impaired blood supply . A lack of blood flowing to the heart interferes with the delivery of electrical impulses, leading to heart failure.
• Damage or death of the heart muscle . As a result, there is an obstruction of impulses along it, which also contributes to the development of arrhythmia.

Typical diseases that cause cardiac dysfunction:

• Cardiac ischemia . Based of this disease Ventricular arrhythmia may occur and the heart may die. The blood vessels narrow until blood can no longer circulate through the heart. As a result, part of the heart muscle dies, causing myocardial infarction.
• Cardiomyopathy . The walls of the ventricles and atria are stretched. They become too thin or, on the contrary, thicken. Cardiac output becomes less efficient. The supply of blood to the aorta decreases, as a result of which human tissues and organs receive less nutrition.
• Heart valve disease . Their incorrect operation also leads to disruptions in cardiac functionality.

The risk group includes people suffering from hypertension, diabetes mellitus, congenital heart pathologies, thyroid disease and a genetic predisposition to heart disease.

Main forms of heart rhythm disturbances

Cardiac arrhythmia occurs in different variants:

Sinus tachycardia. The heart rate increases to 150 beats per minute. In a healthy person, such indicators are observed during heavy physical work or against the background of emotional stress. If such a rhythm persists constantly, then this is due to the presence of serious diseases in a person: heart failure, anemia, improper functioning of the thyroid gland, neuralgia. A person constantly experiences discomfort in the chest area.

Sinus bradycardia. Here the heart rate decreases to 60 beats per minute. This picture is observed in a healthy person when he sleeps. This disease occurs against the background of neurological diseases, with increased intracranial pressure, slowing down the functions of the thyroid gland, stomach pathologies and frequent use of medications.

Paroxysmal tachycardia. The heart rate ranges from 140 to 200 beats per minute when a person is at rest. It usually comes suddenly. This will require emergency medical care.

Extrasystole. This is a condition when the heart and its parts begin to contract prematurely. Extrasystole can occur against the background of any heart disease, mental disorder, use of medications in large dosages, use of drugs and alcohol-containing products.

Atrial fibrillation. Contraction of certain groups of heart muscles in a chaotic sequence. The ventricles contract irregularly at a frequency of 100-150 beats per minute, and the atria do not contract at all. The danger is that the person does not feel any discomfort.

Heartbeat. Failure of the heart is associated with a constant feeling of increased heart contractions. If a person is healthy, this condition is a consequence of heavy physical exertion, heat, and is associated with excitability and anxiety, alcohol abuse and smoking. Palpitations can occur due to heart disease and diseases accompanied by fever.

The structure of the heart will change under the influence of various diseases. Accordingly, arrhythmia occurs in different ways.

How does a heart rhythm disorder manifest?

Heart arythmy- The disease is unpredictable. Often a person does not feel any changes in the functioning of the heart at all, and such a diagnosis is given to the patient only during an examination. But in some cases the disease begins to manifest itself. At the same time, the most severe types of arrhythmia are tolerated by humans quite easily.

The main symptoms for which you should start sounding the alarm are:

• severe dizziness;
• interruptions in heart rhythm;
• lack of oxygen;
• the onset of fainting or pre-fainting;
• pain in the chest area.

Such symptoms are also observed in the presence of other diseases. One way or another, you will have to undergo a medical examination to find out the diagnosis.

Diagnostics

Diagnosis of heart rhythm disorders is carried out sequentially. First, the presence of a disease that worries the patient is detected. This is necessary to determine the possible causes of arrhythmia.

During the examination, medical devices are used and special tests are performed. Passive research methods can be distinguished:

• Electrocardiography. ECG is the most common research method that every person undergoes many times during his life. The device is equipped with electrodes that are attached to the patient's arms, legs and chest. During operation, the device records cardiac activity. A graph is printed with the intervals and duration of contraction of each phase.
• Daily monitoring using the Holter method. A special recorder is installed on the patient’s arm for a day, which records readings of the electrical activity of the heart. The person is doing normal things all this time. After removing the recorder, the specialist, based on the obtained indicators, makes a diagnosis for the patient.
• Echocardiography. Such a study is carried out using an ultrasound sensor, which allows one to obtain extensive information: an image of the chambers of the heart, the movement of the walls and valves and other data.

In addition, several tests are performed to detect problems with the heart.

One of the most effective ways researching arrhythmias and obtaining reliable data on the state of our “engine” is mapping method . Thin electrodes are implanted into a person's heart to detect electrical impulses traveling through the heart. Thus, the type of arrhythmia, its structure and localization are clarified. Using this method, it is possible to test how effective the medications used by the patient are.

Impaired heart rate can be caused by heavy physical exertion. Held exercise test . For the study, any sports equipment or medications are used that act on the heart in the same way as during sports activities. During the test, an ECG is recorded, and based on the data obtained, a diagnosis is made.

If a person has frequent fainting episodes and the cause of their origin is unknown,

tilt table test

The patient lies horizontally on a special table, and heart rate and changes are monitored for 20-30 minutes. blood pressure. Next, the table is installed vertically, and the same monitoring is performed for 10 minutes. Using this test, you can assess the general condition of the heart and nervous system.

Treatment of cardiac arrhythmia

Medicines for the treatment of arrhythmia should be selected based on a comprehensive examination. The type of arrhythmia and what causes its occurrence are determined. First you need to get rid of the cause, and then treat the disease. Hormonal, anti-inflammatory or cardiac drugs are prescribed. Then treatment for arrhythmia is prescribed:

• Antiarrhythmic drugs , which reduce or increase the conductivity of the heart. Additionally, vitamins may be prescribed.
• Reflex impact . This includes a special neck massage on both sides, pressure on the eyeballs, pressure on the abdominals, and inducing the gag reflex. The result of the massage is a decrease in heart rate.
• Installation of pacemakers. The devices are used in combination with reflex effects and medications to eliminate disruptions in the functioning of the heart after myocardial infarction.
• Physiotherapeutic treatment : carbon dioxide and radon baths, four-chamber baths, low-frequency magnetic field. This method of treatment is used extremely rarely, given the patient’s condition.

Heart rhythm disturbances in children, causes and treatment

Heart rhythm disturbances in children and adolescents are observed quite often. However, the disease progresses in a completely different way. The causes of cardiac dysfunction in children are not similar to the disease in adults. The arrhythmia can be painful, and is sometimes recognized in the event of a routine ECG.

signs of rhythm disturbances

in the baby are: the appearance of shortness of breath, pallor, blue discoloration of the skin, anxiety for no reason, poor appetite, lack of weight. In older children, frequent fainting, fatigue, exercise intolerance, weakness, and discomfort in the chest area.

Main reasons arrhythmias in childhood:

• various heart defects;
• heredity;
• severe food or medication poisoning;
• inflammatory heart diseases;
• disease internal organs;
• cardiac abnormalities;
• dysfunctions of the nervous system.

In 20% of cases, the presence of heart failure occurs in healthy children and passes quietly, without consequences. Such arrhythmia disappears over time as soon as the nervous and vegetative system. In this case, the arrhythmia is not treated. But there are more serious types of the disease, for example, extrasystole and tachycardia, which are dangerous to the health of children. At the same time, children do not feel the disease for a long time.

In childhood, arrhythmias that occur as a result of diseases of the heart muscle and heart defects are considered dangerous. The worst prognosis may be tachycardia, atrial fibrillation and complete heart block. If treatment is not started in time, you may become disabled, and death is not excluded.

Frequent fainting is also a consequence of improper functioning of the heart. Experts have found that the presence of fainting in children is caused by a sharp decrease in blood pressure and temporary cardiac arrest.

Diagnosis in children carried out differently. Sometimes it is enough to conduct an ECG, and sometimes 24-hour monitoring or electrophysiological transesophageal examination is performed. The latter resembles gastroscopy. A very thin electrode is passed down the esophagus closer to the heart and the heart rhythm is recorded. Sometimes exercise tests are used to assess the condition of the heart during exercise.

Treatment of childhood arrhythmia depends on the type and severity of the disease. If a temporary heart rhythm disturbance is diagnosed, then medications are not prescribed. It is recommended to establish a routine for the child: peace, less physical activity and less emotional stress. If the arrhythmia is more severe, medications are prescribed that will eliminate the cause of the disease. IN in rare cases surgical intervention is required - installation of pacemakers.

Heart rhythm disturbance in a child (video)

Let's watch a video that tells in detail what a child's heart looks like, what happens to it when the heart rhythm is disturbed, and what a child suffering from the disease feels. Symptoms and treatment. Prevention of childhood arrhythmia.

Possible complications

Arrhythmia, if complications occur, can lead to serious illnesses:

• Stroke . This is a condition where part of the brain dies, which can later lead to death. Blood flow in the atria slows and clots form. Small pieces break off from blood clots and, running through the body, close the arteries of the brain, which provokes a stroke. Find out how to provide first aid for a stroke here.
• Congestive heart failure. There is ineffectiveness of heart contractions (as a consequence of a long period of illness). Constant monitoring of heart rate is necessary.

In order to prevent the occurrence of arrhythmia in childhood, it is necessary to monitor the child’s compliance with the child’s regimen and undergo periodic examinations of the cardiovascular system. If a disease occurs, eliminate the causes that provoke the disease. At the slightest suspicion of arrhythmia, you should immediately contact a specialist.

Prevention of cardiac arrhythmias in adults includes mandatory cessation of bad habits, good sleep, balanced diet, correct mode of work and rest. It is important to promptly treat identified diseases.

The heart is our engine. Our lives depend on his work. We do not always notice that the heart is not working properly, attributing it to fatigue or lack of sleep. As a result, the disease develops and the heart condition worsens. At the “first bell” it is necessary to undergo examination and begin treatment, if necessary.

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Under normal conditions, the human heart beats smoothly and regularly. The heart rate per minute ranges from 60 to 80 beats. This rhythm is set by the sinus node, which is also called the pacemaker. It contains pacemaker cells, from which excitation is transmitted further to other parts of the heart, namely to the atrioventricular node, and to the His bundle directly in the tissue of the ventricles. This anatomical and functional division is important from the point of view of the type of a particular disorder, because a block in the conduction of impulses or acceleration of impulses can occur in any of these areas.

Disturbances in heart rhythm and conduction are called arrhythmias and are conditions when the heart rate becomes less than normal (less than 60 per minute) or more than normal (more than 80 per minute). Arrhythmia is also a condition when the rhythm is irregular (irregular, or non-sinus), that is, it comes from any part of the conduction system, but not from the sinus node.

Different types of rhythm disturbances occur in different percentages:

• Thus, according to statistics, the lion's share of rhythm disturbances with the presence of underlying cardiac pathology are atrial and ventricular extrasystole, which occur in 85% of cases in patients with coronary artery disease.
• In second place in frequency is the paroxysmal and permanent form of atrial fibrillation, which occurs in 5% of cases in people over 60 years of age and in 10% of cases in people over 80 years of age.

However, disorders of the sinus node are even more common, in particular, tachycardia and bradycardia that occur without heart pathology. Probably every inhabitant of the planet has experienced rapid heartbeat caused by stress or emotions. Therefore, these types of physiological deviations do not have statistical significance.

Classification

All rhythm and conduction disorders are classified as follows:

1. Heart rhythm disturbances.
2. Conduction disorders in the heart.

In the first case, as a rule, there is an acceleration of the heart rate and/or irregular contraction of the heart muscle. In the second, the presence of blockades of varying degrees with or without slowing of the rhythm is noted.
Generally The first group includes disorders of the formation and conduction of impulses:

the cycle of impulses passing through the heart is normal in the sinus node, manifested by sinus tachycardia, sinus bradycardia and sinus arrhythmia - tachyarrhythmia or bradyarrhythmia.

• According to the tissue of the atria, manifested atrial extrasystole and paroxysmal atrial tachycardia,
• At the atrioventricular junction (AV node), manifested by atrioventricular extrasystole and paroxysmal tachycardia,
• Along the fibers of the ventricles of the heart, manifested by ventricular extrasystole and paroxysmal ventricular tachycardia,
• In the sinus node and along the tissue of the atria or ventricles, manifested by flutter and fibrillation (fibrillation) of the atria and ventricles.

The second group of conduction disorders includes blocks (blockades) in the path of impulses, manifested by sinoatrial block, intraatrial block, atrioventricular block of 1, 2 and 3 degrees and bundle branch block.

Causes of heart rhythm disturbances

Rhythm disturbances can be caused not only by serious heart pathology, but also physiological characteristics body. For example, sinus tachycardia may develop during fast walking or running, as well as after playing sports or after strong emotions. Respiratory bradyarrhythmia is a variant of the norm and consists of an increase in contractions when inhaling and a decrease in heart rate when exhaling.

However, such rhythm disturbances, which are accompanied by atrial fibrillation (atrial fibrillation and flutter), extrasystole and paroxysmal types of tachycardia, in the vast majority of cases develop against the background of diseases of the heart or other organs.

Diseases that cause rhythm disturbances

Pathology of the cardiovascular system occurring against the background of:

• Coronary heart disease, including angina pectoris, acute and previous myocardial infarction,
• Arterial hypertension, especially with frequent crises and long-term,
• heart defects,
• Cardiomyopathies (structural changes in the normal anatomy of the myocardium) due to the above diseases.

Non-cardiac diseases:

• Stomach and intestines, such as stomach ulcers, chronic cholecystitis and etc,
• Acute poisoning,
• Active pathology of the thyroid gland, in particular hyperthyroidism (increased secretion of thyroid hormones into the blood),
• Dehydration and disturbances in blood electrolyte composition,
• Fever, severe hypothermia,
• Alcohol poisoning
• Pheochromocytoma is a tumor of the adrenal glands.

In addition, there are risk factors that contribute to the occurrence of rhythm disturbances:

1. Obesity,
2. Bad habits,
3. Age over 45 years,
4. Concomitant endocrine pathology.

Do cardiac arrhythmias manifest themselves in the same way?

All rhythm and conduction disorders clinically manifest themselves differently in different patients. Some patients do not feel any symptoms and learn about the pathology only after scheduled ECG. This proportion of patients is insignificant, since in most cases patients note obvious symptoms.

So, for rhythm disturbances accompanied by rapid heartbeat (from 100 to 200 per minute), especially for paroxysmal forms, characterized by a sharp sudden onset and interruptions in the heart, lack of air, pain in the sternum. Some conduction disorders, such as fascicular blocks, do not show any signs and are recognized only on an ECG. Sinoatrial and atrioventricular blockades of the first degree occur with a slight decrease in heart rate (50-55 per minute), which is why clinically they can manifest only slight weakness and increased fatigue.
Blockades of the 2nd and 3rd degrees are manifested by severe bradycardia (less than 30-40 per minute) and are characterized by short-term attacks of loss of consciousness, called MES attacks. In addition, any of the listed conditions may be accompanied by a general serious condition with cold sweat, intense pain in the left half of the chest, decreased blood pressure, general weakness and loss of consciousness. These symptoms are caused by impaired cardiac hemodynamics and require close attention from an emergency physician or clinic.

How to diagnose pathology?

Establishing a diagnosis of rhythm disturbance is not difficult if the patient presents typical complaints. Before the initial examination by a doctor, the patient can independently count his pulse and evaluate certain symptoms. However The type of rhythm disturbance can only be determined by a doctor after an ECG., since each species has its own signs on the electrocardiogram.
For example, extrasystoles are manifested by altered ventricular complexes, paroxysm of tachycardia - by short intervals between complexes, atrial fibrillation - by an irregular rhythm and heart rate of more than 100 per minute, sinoatrial block - by lengthening of the P wave, reflecting the conduction of the impulse through the atria, atrioventricular block - by lengthening the interval between the atria and ventricular complexes, etc. In any case, only a cardiologist or therapist can correctly interpret changes in the ECG. Therefore, when the first symptoms of rhythm disturbance appear, the patient should seek medical help as soon as possible.
In addition to an ECG, which can be performed upon the arrival of an ambulance team at the patient’s home, additional examination methods may be needed. They are prescribed in the clinic, if the patient was not hospitalized, or in the cardiology (arrhythmology) department of the hospital, if the patient had indications for hospitalization. In most cases, patients are hospitalized because even a mild heart rhythm disorder can be a precursor to a more serious, life-threatening rhythm disorder. The exception is sinus tachycardia, since it is often treated with tablets at the prehospital stage, and generally does not pose a threat to life. From additional methods diagnostics usually indicate the following:

1. Monitoring blood pressure and ECG throughout the day (Holter),
2. Tests with physical activity (walking on stairs, walking on a treadmill - treadmill test, cycling - bicycle ergometry),
3. Transesophageal ECG to clarify the location of the rhythm disturbance,
4. Transesophageal electrophysiological study (TEPE) in the case when the rhythm disturbance cannot be detected using a standard cardiogram, and it is necessary to stimulate the heart contractions and provoke the rhythm disturbance to find out its exact type.

In some cases, an MRI of the heart may be required, for example, if the patient is suspected of having a heart tumor, myocarditis, or a scar after a myocardial infarction that is not reflected in the cardiogram. A method such as ultrasound of the heart, or echocardioscopy, is a mandatory standard of research for patients with rhythm disturbances of any origin.

Treatment of rhythm disturbances

Treatment for rhythm and conduction disorders varies depending on the type and the cause that caused it.
For example, in the case of coronary heart disease, the patient receives nitroglycerin, blood thinning drugs (thromboAss, aspirin cardio) and drugs to normalize high cholesterol levels in the blood (atorvastatin, rosuvastatin). For hypertension, the prescription of antihypertensive drugs (enalapril, losartan, etc.) is justified. In the presence of chronic heart failure, diuretics (Lasix, Diacarb, Diuver, Veroshpiron) and cardiac glycosides (digoxin) are prescribed. If a patient has a heart defect, surgical correction of the defect may be indicated. Regardless of the reason, urgent Care in the presence of rhythm disturbances in the form of atrial fibrillation or paroxysmal tachycardia, consists of administering rhythm-restoring (antiarrhythmics) and rhythm-slowing drugs to the patient. The first group includes drugs such as panangin, asparkam, novocainamide, cordarone, strophanthin for intravenous administration. For ventricular tachycardia, lidocaine is administered intravenously, and for extrasystole, betalocaine is administered in the form of a solution. Sinus tachycardia can be stopped by taking anaprilin under the tongue or egilok (Concor, Coronal, etc.) orally in tablet form. Bradycardia and blockades require completely different treatment. In particular, prednisolone, aminophylline, atropine are administered intravenously to the patient, and in case of low blood pressure, mesaton and dopamine along with adrenaline. These drugs “accelerate” the heart rate and make the heart beat faster and stronger.

Are there possible complications of heart rhythm disturbances?

Heart rhythm disturbances are dangerous not only because blood circulation throughout the body is disrupted due to improper functioning of the heart and a decrease in cardiac output, but also due to the sometimes development dangerous complications. Most often, patients develop against the background of one or another rhythm disturbance:

• Collapse. Manifests sharp drop blood pressure level (below 100 mm Hg), general severe weakness and pallor, pre-syncope or fainting. It can develop both as a result of a direct rhythm disturbance (for example, during an attack of MES), and as a result of the administration of antiarrhythmic drugs, for example, procainamide during atrial fibrillation. IN the latter case this condition is interpreted as drug-induced hypotension.
• Arrhythmogenic shock- occurs as a result of a sharp decrease in blood flow in the internal organs, in the brain and in the arterioles of the skin. It is characterized by the general severe condition of the patient, lack of consciousness, pallor or cyanosis of the skin, pressure below 60 mmHg, and a rare heartbeat. Without timely assistance, the patient may die.
• Ischemic stroke occurs due to increased thrombus formation in the heart cavity, since during paroxysmal tachycardias the blood in the heart “beats”, like in a mixer. Blood clots that form may settle on inner surface heart (mural thrombi) or spread through the blood vessels to the brain, clogging their lumen and leading to severe ischemia of the brain substance. It manifests itself as sudden speech disturbances, unsteadiness of gait, complete or partial paralysis of the limbs.
• PE (pulmonary embolism) occurs for the same reason as a stroke, only as a result of blockage of the pulmonary artery by blood clots. Clinically manifested by severe shortness of breath and suffocation, as well as bluish discoloration of the skin of the face, neck and chest skin above the level of the nipples. When the pulmonary vessel is completely obstructed, the patient experiences sudden death.
• Acute myocardial infarction due to the fact that during an attack of tachyarrhythmia the heart beats at a very high frequency, and the coronary arteries are simply not able to provide the necessary blood flow to the heart muscle itself. Oxygen deficiency occurs in the cardiac tissues, and an area of ​​necrosis, or death of myocardial cells, forms. Manifests sharp pain behind the sternum or in the chest on the left.
• Ventricular fibrillation, asystole (cardiac arrest) and clinical death . More often they develop with paroxysm of ventricular tachycardia, which turns into ventricular fibrillation. In this case, the contractility of the myocardium is completely lost, and an adequate amount of blood does not enter the vessels. A few minutes after fibrillation, the heart stops and clinical death develops, which, without timely assistance, turns into biological death.

In a small number of cases, the patient immediately experiences a rhythm disturbance, any of the complications and death. This condition is included in the concept of sudden cardiac death.

Forecast

The prognosis for rhythm disturbances in the absence of complications and in the absence of organic heart pathology is favorable. Otherwise, the prognosis is determined by the degree and severity of the underlying pathology and the type of complications.

Video: heart rhythm disturbances in the program “About the Most Important Thing”

Video: famous arrhythmologist about heart rhythm disturbances

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Sometimes the heart rhythm fails, and the reasons for this condition can be different. If this was not caused by emotional manifestations or drinking strong drinks, you should consult a doctor. Our heart performs about one hundred thousand contractions per day. If the electrical impulses are stable, we pay absolutely no attention to the heartbeat. When the system malfunctions, the pounding in the chest intensifies, the rhythm increases, or, conversely, a feeling of “fading” of the heart arises, this causes anxiety. A single manifestation of such a symptom may be a consequence of stress or overwork. If this happens repeatedly, this may indicate the presence of a serious pathology.

Causes of rhythm failure

The heart consists of two ventricles and the same number of atria. In the right atrium there is a sinus node, in which an electrical impulse is generated. Spreading through the atrioventricular node, His bundle, and Purkinje fibers, it initiates contraction of the organ. The norm assumes a frequency of such passages ranging from 60 to 90 times per minute. With the correct rhythm, the frequency of heart contractions is the same. If a disturbance occurs in any area of ​​the conduction system, the normal passage of the impulse is disrupted. Accordingly, the heart rhythm fails. But this phenomenon is not always pathological. For example, a natural heart rhythm disorder in the form of moderate bradycardia (a slight slowdown in the contractility of the organ) occurs in humans at night. This is due to the predominance of vagal effects on the heart. In addition, during the rest period, sinus arrhythmia, extrasystole, and grade 1 atrioventricular conduction disturbance may be observed. Under stress, strong emotional stress, and significant physical exertion, tachycardia can also be observed. This occurs due to disturbances in the functioning of the autonomic nervous system and the entry of adrenaline into the blood, which leads to an increase in heart rate. Similar symptom can cause a considerable amount of coffee, alcoholic drinks, and nicotine. Significant consumption of alcohol-containing beverages leads to the formation of a paroxysm of atrial fibrillation and supraventricular tachycardia. In addition, changes in heart rate can be a consequence of changes in the electrolyte balance of the blood and in the viscosity of biological fluid. Such atypical transformations can lead to:

• inflammatory processes occurring in the body;
• overheating or hypothermia;
• large blood loss;
• collapse;
• intoxication;
• clinical-hematological syndrome;
• dehydration.

All the above reasons are temporary. They do not require treatment and disappear after eliminating the factors that led to the arrhythmia. But heart rhythm disturbances can also cause complex diseases. Moreover, a failure in the functioning of an organ can provoke pathological processes occurring not only in the heart, but also in other organs. So, the following ailments can lead to arrhythmia:

1. Cardiovascular diseases - defects, heart attack, cardiomyopathy, hypertension, endocarditis, cardiosclerosis, myocarditis, heart failure, pericarditis, rheumatic carditis.
2. Diseases of the nervous system - prolonged psychogenic disorders, VSD, stroke, brain injury, oncological processes.
3. Pathologies of the endocrine system - absolute or relative deficiency of the hormone insulin, increased or decreased activity of thyroid hormones, pheochromocytoma, menopause.
4. Diseases of the gastrointestinal system - hernia hiatus, inflammation of the gallbladder, pancreas.

Most often, as a result of such factors, sinus tachycardia, bradycardia, atrial and ventricular extrasystole, supraventricular tachycardia, atrioventricular and His bundle block occur.

Types of heart rhythm disturbances

In a healthy person, the heart rhythm is sinus and regular. This means that each impulse originates in the sinus node and then arrives with the same frequency. In the event of any failure in the passage of the heart rate, it can decrease or increase. Such dysfunctions can be of several types.

Violation of impulse appearance

With this pathology, the impulse is created either very often or too rarely. In the first case, sinus tachycardia is diagnosed (the heart beats at a frequency of more than 90 beats per minute). In the second option, sinus bradycardia is stated (the organ contracts less than 60 times per minute). When an impulse is formed in other areas of the conduction system, an ectopic focus of excitation occurs. It can be located in the atrial sections, atrioventricular node, or ventricles. As a result, slow, slipping, rapid ectopic rhythms, untimely depolarization and contraction of the organ or its individual chambers, paroxysmal tachycardia, flutter.

Such disturbances in the conduction of impulses through an organ can occur in any area of ​​the system. Therefore, blockades can be sinoatrial, intraatrial, atrioventricular, or the His bundle.

Combined types

This category includes dysfunctions in which another ectopic pacemaker operates simultaneously with the sinus one, but the deviations are separated by a blockade. IN such a case the ventricles contract at one frequency, and the atria at another.

First aid

Unpleasant sensations in the chest necessarily require calling an ambulance. And before her arrival, the patient needs to be helped. General actions boils down to the following points:

1. The person should be calmed and forced to take a horizontal position.
2. If the pulse is frequent, you should put a pillow under your head; if your heart beats rarely, it should be placed under your knees.
3. It is necessary to unbutton the collar on the patient’s clothes and open the window.
4. Blood pressure should be measured.
5. When a heart rhythm disturbance has caused stress or anxiety, a person should be given a few drops of Corvalol, tincture of valerian root or other sedatives.
6. If a heart rhythm disturbance is accompanied by pain in the chest area, Nitroglycerin should be placed under the tongue.
7. If your heart rate increases, you can use a vagal test: strain while take a deep breath, close your eyes and press on your eyelids, induce vomiting or coughing.

If, before the arrival of the ambulance, it was possible to stop the unpleasant symptoms, restore normal heart rhythm, and the patient feels well, he can be left at home under the supervision of a physician. Ailments such as tachycardia, extrasystole, incomplete blockades can be treated in a clinic. To do this, you will need to visit a medical facility. After visiting the clinic with complaints about cardiac activity, the doctor will prescribe an ECG. Such an examination will make it possible to make a diagnosis, find out the characteristics of the development of the pathology and its type. When rhythm disturbances are irregular and only occasionally bother the patient, the doctor may prescribe daily Holter ECG monitoring. If a pathology is detected, the doctor prescribes appropriate treatment.

Heart rhythm disturbances may occur due to various reasons. If such disorders occur regularly, you should immediately consult a doctor.

The sooner this is done, the greater the chance of preventing the development of complex pathologies. And under no circumstances should you self-medicate. Only a doctor can prescribe the drug correctly.

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Heart rhythm disturbance- This is a common pathology of cardiac activity, consisting of a deviation from the normal rhythm and systematicity of the contractile function of the heart muscle. The heart is a vital organ human body, so even the slightest violation the rhythm of cardiac activity has a detrimental effect on the functioning of all structures. The center of heart rhythm disturbances is located both in the myocardium itself and in the so-called “conducting system” of the heart, therefore all types of imbalance in the functioning of the heart can be attributed to either excitability disorders or conduction disorders.

Causes of heart rhythm disturbances

Disturbances in heart rhythm and conduction can be observed at any age, since this pathology belongs to the category of polyetiological groups of diseases, that is, there are many correctable and non-correctable factors that can independently or in combination provoke certain rhythm disturbances. Uncorrectable provocateurs of failures in the regularity and systematicity of cardiac activity are: - elderly age of the patient, causing physiological trophic disorders in the myocardium, which have a detrimental effect on the process of generation and transmission of electrical impulses; - burdened heredity for the occurrence of congenital forms of rhythm disturbance, as well as various birth defects development of structures of the cardiovascular system; - insulin-dependent form diabetes mellitus, which is a trigger for the development of malfunctions of the heart muscle, that is, this pathology itself is not the root cause of arrhythmia, but aggravates its course. To a greater extent, the process of development of certain forms of cardiac arrhythmia is influenced by correctable etiopathogenetic factors, the elimination of which is the main key to the successful treatment of cardiac arrhythmias. Among these factors, the most common are: - all types of organic pathologies of the heart, accompanied by changes in the structure of the myocardium and valvular apparatus, as well as significant changes vascular wall large blood vessels, delivering essential nutrients to the heart muscle; - diseases of the hormonal system, in particular severe pathologies of the thyroid gland with concomitant hypo- and hyperthyroidism; - long-term uncontrolled use of certain groups of drugs that disrupt metabolic processes in the body and cause electrolyte imbalance (diuretics, anticonvulsants); - persistent hypertension, not controlled by taking antihypertensive drugs (the mechanism of arrhythmia is caused by hypertrophic constrictive cardiomyopathy, which creates obstacles to the passage of an electrical impulse through the thickened myocardium); - overweight of the patient, which in 90% of cases provokes the development of atherosclerotic disease coronary arteries, responsible for feeding the heart muscle; - pathologies accompanied by pronounced electrolyte shifts, since the work of the heart muscle directly depends on the content of vital microelements in the body; - cardiomyopathy of alcoholic origin in 50% of cases provokes the development of signs of atrial fibrillation; - systematic use of psychotropic drugs causes severe acute disorders heart rate, ultimately resulting in death.

Symptoms of heart rhythm disturbances

All types of heart muscle rhythm disturbances can be divided according to clinical manifestations into two large groups, depending on whether the contractility of the heart is slowed down or accelerated. Thus, types of arrhythmia accompanied by a slowdown in contraction of the heart muscle are characterized by symptoms of circulatory disorders, and tachyarrhythmic rhythm disturbances are accompanied by patient complaints of a feeling of interruptions in the heart. However, each of the divisions of arrhythmias has its own specific symptoms, the presence of which allows us to suspect one or another form of cardiac dysfunction. When even an absolutely healthy person who has no pathological changes heart muscle is in unusual conditions (stress, excessive physical activity, elevated ambient temperature), a so-called “physiological” form of tachyarrhythmia occurs, which does not require drug intervention and goes away on its own after eliminating the factor that provoked it. This arrhythmia is not accompanied by gross organic damage to the heart muscle and does not cause permanent health problems. Tachyarrhythmic forms of rhythm disturbances that arise against the background of organic heart pathology are accompanied by the appearance of a clear clinical symptom complex in the form of a feeling of rapid heartbeat, a feeling of heat in the upper half of the body and especially the head, despite the pronounced pallor and moisture of the skin. A symptom that indicates the development of severe tachyarrhythmia is varying degrees of impairment of consciousness from short-term fainting to stupor. This form cardiac dysfunction requires not only emergency diagnosis using electrocardiography, but also systematic use of antiarrhythmic drugs. The opposite of tachyarrhythmia is a symptom complex caused by a reduced heart rate - bradyarrhythmia. Like the previous group, bradyarrhythmic forms of arrhythmia can be observed in people who do not suffer from heart pathology (professional athletes, elderly people) and do not cause discomfort or severe health disorders. Bradyarrhythmic types of heart block can be both short-term and permanent in nature and manifest themselves in the form of severe weakness, dizziness, short-term loss of consciousness, convulsive syndrome, and when severe course even have a fatal outcome. A type of cardiac arrhythmia unique in its nature and clinical manifestations is extrasystole. An interesting fact is that even the heart of a healthy person generates about 4% of extrasystolic contractions in relation to the total number of heart contractions. This frequency is not capable of having a significant impact on the normal functioning of the heart and is not accompanied by changes in the person’s health status. The occurrence of group extrasytolic contractions of increased frequency causes characteristic symptoms in the form of a feeling of “fading of the heart”, followed by a strong cardiac impulse, difficulty breathing, typical cardialgia, and with a permanent form of this pathology, the patient develops a characteristic angina symptom complex. This form of cardiac arrhythmia most often transforms into ventricular fibrillation, which in most cases has a fatal outcome.

Heart rhythm disturbances in children

Unlike the adult population, in whom cardiac rhythm disturbances more often occur against the background of other diseases, in childhood arrhythmias are equally diagnosed in both healthy individuals with respect to the cardiovascular system and in children with congenital forms of rhythm disturbances. According to world statistics in the field of pediatrics and cardiology, percentage episodes of rhythm disturbances in children of various age groups in the overall structure of cardiac pathology is at least 27%. Children at puberty are more susceptible to cardiac arrhythmias, since during this period there are pronounced changes in the activity of all structures of the body at the humoral and cellular levels. When identifying the cause of one or another form of cardiac dysfunction, special attention should be paid to the psycho-emotional state of the child, since in many cases adequately applied methods of psychocorrection are accompanied by complete elimination of signs of arrhythmia. Features of arrhythmias in pediatric patients age group is their latent course and diagnosis only during preventive electrocardiographic examination. Unlike adults, children with arrhythmia do not have complaints about interruptions in the heart’s function, as well as cardiac symptoms. During this period, symptoms of psychovegetative syndrome (increased irritability, night sleep disorders, weather sensitivity, short-term disturbances of consciousness) come to the fore. Arrhythmias, accompanied by non-persistent disturbances of cardiac activity and not having an organic origin, are prone to self-regression. More pronounced violations rhythmic activity of the heart significantly aggravate the patient’s health, causing a persistent disturbance of central hemodynamics. The prognosis for the life of a child with arrhythmia is favorable in the conditions of timely drug correction.

Treatment of heart rhythm disturbances

The fundamental principle of treatment of any form of arrhythmia is correction eating behavior, work and rest regime, as well as carrying out adequate etiopathogenetically based therapy using conservative treatment methods, and in severe cases of the disease - surgical intervention. Means of etiological treatment of heart rhythm disturbances include such groups of drugs as: - beta-blockers for diseases of the thyroid gland with thyrotoxicosis (Nebilet in daily dose 2.5 mg); - sedative drugs for tachyarrhythmias of neurocirculatory origin (Sedasen forte 1 capsule 3 times a day); - cardiac glycosides, which are used for chronic heart failure with concomitant tachyarrhythmia (Digoxin in a daily dose of 0.75 mg). Specific antiarrhythmic drugs require a careful approach to selecting an adequate therapeutic dose, followed by systematic administration of one or more antiarrhythmic drugs in a maintenance dosage. In an era of rapid development of pharmacy, conditions are being created for the development of new formulations of antiarrhythmic drugs and the production of a colossal number of analogues of certain drugs, therefore the task of the cardiologist is to determine the type of arrhythmia and prescribe a drug belonging to one of three classes. Drugs of the first class have pronounced proarrhythmic properties (Ethmozin, Propafenone) and their area of ​​application is refractory forms of arrhythmia. Drugs of the second class are considered the most gentle in terms of patient tolerance and are used for almost any form of cardiac arrhythmia (Atenolol, Bisoprolol). Third class antiarrhythmic drugs are used to relieve ventricular fibrillation (Amiodarone). Provided that treatment is started in a timely manner with individual selection of an antiarrhythmic treatment regimen, a favorable outcome of the disease is noted, consisting in the complete relief of attacks of cardiac arrhythmia and the prevention of possible complications. A feature of all groups of antiarrhythmic drugs is that they have a positive effect only in relation to one group of arrhythmias, but can be provocateurs of other types of arrhythmias, and therefore the selection of an individual antiarrhythmic therapy regimen should be carried out only in a cardiology hospital under constant monitoring electrocardiography indicators. Surgical techniques correction of heart rhythm disturbances is used extremely rarely when there is an arrhythmia caused by gross organic pathology of the heart or the arrhythmia is resistant to drug treatment. A minimally invasive surgical intervention used to treat ventricular arrhythmias is the installation of a pacemaker, the principle of which is to provide the function of a natural pacemaker.

Minor irregularities in the rhythm of the heartbeat can occur in a healthy person and even in a child. Often they do not pose a threat to human health. But such failures can also be a sign of a serious illness. It is useful for every person to know why it may occur and what needs to be done.

Often, heart rhythm disturbances do not pose a threat to health

Changes in heartbeat can occur for many reasons. Most often, such a failure can occur after physical activity or due to serious pathologies hearts.

All influencing factors can be divided into three types:

1. Organic damage to the heart (heart disease)
2. Bias water-salt balance and mineral imbalance
3. External influence on the body (overwork, stress, exhaustion)

All of them can contribute to the development of interruptions in the rhythm of heart contractions. The result of this is complications and a threat to life.

How does it go

Each person's attack may occur differently. The most common symptoms are:

• Sudden feeling of fear and panic
• , lack of oxygen
• Cough, even with phlegm
• Stitching and squeezing
• Feeling stopped or
• Dizziness
• Weakness,

Similar signs can serve as manifestations of many other diseases. To establish an accurate diagnosis, you should consult a doctor for diagnosis.

Extrasystole - what is it?

Most often, extrasystole is felt as a strong push or beat of the heart from the inside. Patients may even feel as if their heart is turning over. Such symptoms are the result of a strong contraction of the heart.

Extrasystole can also manifest itself with other symptoms:

• Increased sweating
• Feeling of lack of oxygen
• Severe weakness
• Feeling anxious
• Dizziness
• Fainting

Such symptoms occur due to insufficient blood supply to the brain. If these symptoms occur, you should immediately consult a doctor. Extrasystole can have serious consequences.

Extrasystole in childhood

Such disruptions in cardiac function as extrasystole are often detected in a child. It is diagnosed in children at any age, even during fetal development. Statistical studies indicate that more than 70% of all children have cardiac arrhythmia.

There are also many reasons for the development of extrasystole in children:

• Infectious lesions of the heart muscles
• Pathologies of the endocrine system
• Pathologies of the nervous system
• Vitamin deficiency, poor nutrition
• Emotional experience
• Chronic inflammatory foci in the body

Regardless of the factor of occurrence, the pathology requires appropriate treatment. Often it is enough to normalize your diet and daily routine. In extreme cases, surgery and the installation of a pacemaker are required.

Watch a video about heart rhythm disturbances in a child:

How to act

During an attack of extrasystole, blood pressure and pulse should be measured

An attack of arrhythmia can occur suddenly. The first thing you should do is call an ambulance. This is important to do in the event of the first attack. Before the medical team arrives, it is necessary for people present at home to provide first aid to the patient.

First aid:

1. Calm the patient
2. Lay the patient down or make it more convenient to sit down
3. Open the window for air flow
4. Ask to hold your breath for 10-15 seconds and then cough well
5. Induce vomiting by pressing on the root of the tongue
6. Give me a crust of bread to eat
7. Wash your face or soak it in a bowl of cold water for a while.
8. Artificial respiration in case of fainting should be performed by a person with appropriate training

Such measures will help alleviate the patient’s condition and overcome the attack.

The medical team normalizes the patient’s condition with the help of medications. Hospitalization is required to make a diagnosis and prescribe treatment.

Modern diagnostic methods

If your heart rhythm is abnormal, you should definitely do an ECG.

Currently, there are many modern methods for diagnosing various human diseases. Examination of patients with cardiac dysfunction occurs in the following order:

1. Initially, the doctor conducts a full examination of the patient and collects information. To make a diagnosis, data on the signs of pathology, the number and intensity of attacks, the presence of other pathologies and the use of medications. The doctor then listens to the heart rhythm and records the pulse.
2. The second stage of the examination is necessarily the heart. This study allows you to more accurately assess the rhythm of the heartbeat. In some cases it is carried out. The method is based on attaching a portable sensor to the human body that records the heartbeat for 1-2 days. In addition to this, the patient should keep a diary, where he writes down a list of all his actions and his well-being during their implementation.
3. The next stage of examination is required when conventional methods it is not possible to detect cardiac failures. For these purposes, bicycle ergometry is used. These tests allow you to measure your blood pressure and heart rate while moving.
4. Additional examination methods are, and. They are carried out to identify organic damage.
5. When a tilt table test is prescribed. During the study, the patient is placed on a special table, which horizontal position moves to vertical. At the same time, constant monitoring of the patient’s condition is carried out.
6. A reliable research method is the mapping method. This method is based on implanting special thin electrodes into the patient’s heart that monitor all impulses. Thanks to this, it is possible to identify the type of arrhythmia, its place of origin and its mechanism.

Only after carrying out all the necessary examinations can the doctor accurately identify the cause of heart rhythm disturbances and prescribe the correct treatment.

How to treat extrasystole

If heart rhythm disturbances are accompanied by shortness of breath, it is necessary to take medications

Treatment methods for extrasystole are selected depending on the reasons for its occurrence. Rare manifestations of pathology do not entail serious consequences and do not require drug treatment. It is enough to eliminate external cause and the heartbeat rhythm returns to normal.

For example, if the cause was taking medications, then they should be discontinued. If the cause of extrasystole is emotional overstrain or stress, then you should take sedatives.

If frequent attacks are accompanied by signs such as weakness, shortness of breath, the doctor prescribes medications. The dosage is selected by the doctor. Self-treatment is unacceptable.

The most common antiarrhythmic drugs:

• Sotalol scrap
• Novocainamide
• Quinidine
• Cordaron
• Mexilen

The course of treatment lasts until the attacks completely stop. The dosage is gradually reduced and then completely discontinued. In severe cases, medication can be lifelong.

In cases of ineffectiveness of drugs, radiofrequency ablation can be used. This procedure involves inserting an endovascular catheter that conducts currents. As a result of this, the electrode acts on those areas where conductivity is impaired and blocks incorrect impulses.

For bradycardia

For rare attacks, drug therapy is also not required. Normalizing your daily routine helps improve your well-being. Medicines must be used in case of severe decrease in performance and frequent dizziness.

Main drugs:

• Ginseng
• Caffeine
• Mildronate
• Rhythmocore
• Adrenergic agonists

With tachycardia

For tachycardia, use hawthorn tincture

The main groups of drugs for atrial fibrillation:

• Antiarrhythmics (, Nebilet, Carvedilol)
• Drugs that reduce fiber excitability (Cordarone, Quinidine, Allapinine)
• Glycosides (Corglicon, Digoxin)
• Drugs against blood clots (, CardioMagnil)

Consequences of heart rhythm disturbances and prognosis for patients

A possible complication of heart rhythm disturbances may be ischemic stroke

The prognosis for a patient with this pathology depends on the cause and severity of the symptoms. At timely treatment You can achieve good results and restore your health.

If left untreated, irregularities in the rhythm of the heartbeat can lead to serious complications.

The most obvious complication is a disruption of the blood supply and nutrition of all organs and systems of the body. Oxygen starvation occurs.

TO possible complications also include:

• Collapse occurs during fainting
• Arrhythmogenic shock manifests itself in a sharp decrease in blood flow to all organs and loss of consciousness
• occurs as a result of increased thrombus formation and blockage of blood vessels
• Pulmonary embolism, similar to ischemia, occurs when an artery is blocked and can lead to death
• occurs due to the fact that with a rapid heartbeat, blood quickly flows through it and does not have time to nourish the heart muscles themselves, as a result of which they begin to die
• leads to cardiac arrest and death

To avoid such serious complications, you must immediately consult a doctor at the first attacks of arrhythmia.

Prevention methods

Physical exercise helps prevent heart rhythm problems

Basic preventive measures:

• Eliminate bad habits
• Exercise
• Eat healthy and nutritious foods
• Take medications only as prescribed by your doctor and strictly follow the dosage
• Monitor your body weight
• Avoid stressful situations
• Avoid hypothermia and overheating
• Get regular medical examinations

Heartbeat arrhythmia can occur for many reasons. In many cases, they do not pose a health hazard and it is enough to eliminate them to normalize the heart rhythm. external factors effects on the body.

Heart disease can serve as a symptom of serious cardiac pathologies or individual internal organs. In this case, it is necessary to treat the underlying cause and take medications to eliminate the arrhythmia.

With timely and correct treatment, disturbances in the rhythm of the heartbeat can be cured. Complications develop in the absence necessary treatment and damage to internal organs as a result of poor circulation and oxygen starvation.