The symptoms of arrhythmia (abnormal heart rhythm) may include:
- Dizziness or feeling light-headed.
- Palpitations (a feeling of skipped heart beats, fluttering or “flip-flops”).
- Chest discomfort/ chest pain.
- Shortness of breath.
- Fainting.
- Pounding in your chest.
- A slow heartbeat.
- A racing heartbeat
- Weakness or fatigue (feeling very tired).
Treatments for arrhythmia may vary, depending on its type and seriousness. Some people with arrhythmias may not require any treatment. For others, the treatments can include medication, lifestyle changes, and surgery.
- Antiarrhythmic drugs can be used to control heart rate. These drugs include beta-blockers.
- Anticoagulant or antiplatelet therapy to reduce the risk of blood clots and stroke. Blood thinners called Pradaxa (dabigatran) and Xeralta (rivaroxaban) have been approved to prevent stroke in people with atrial fibrillation.
- Stop smoking.
- Limit your alcohol intake.
- Limit your caffeine intake.
- If you notice that your arrhythmia occurs more often with certain activities, you should avoid them.
- Avoid certain medications that may promote irregular heart rhythms. In this case, you should ask your doctor or pharmacist what medication would be best for you.
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