Irregular heartbeat or heart skipping
Overview
Irregular heartbeat, also known as arrhythmia, occurs when the heart beats too fast, too slow, or with an uneven rhythm that may feel like skipping or fluttering. This condition can cause the heart to pump blood less effectively, leading to sensations of palpitations or missed beats.
Common Causes
An irregular heartbeat can be caused by everyday factors like caffeine consumption, stress, lack of sleep, or intense physical activity. Dehydration, certain medications, and hormonal changes during menstruation or menopause may also trigger these sensations. Lifestyle habits such as smoking, excessive alcohol intake, or consuming large meals can contribute to heart rhythm irregularities as well.
Severity Levels
Mild: You may notice occasional heart flutters or skipped beats that come and go, especially during stress or after caffeine. These episodes are brief and don't interfere with daily activities.
Moderate: Heart rhythm irregularities become more frequent and noticeable, possibly causing some shortness of breath or mild chest discomfort during episodes. You might feel the need to pause activities when symptoms occur.
Severe: Irregular heartbeat is persistent or frequent, accompanied by significant chest pain, severe shortness of breath, dizziness, or fainting. These symptoms require immediate medical attention as they may indicate a serious heart condition.
Medical Attention
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience chest pain, severe shortness of breath, dizziness, or fainting along with your irregular heartbeat. Contact your doctor if episodes become more frequent, last longer than usual, or interfere with your daily activities. If you have a history of heart disease or are taking heart medications, consult your healthcare provider promptly about any new or worsening symptoms.
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