Most of us don’t think twice about our heartbeat. It quietly keeps us alive, pumping blood and oxygen through the body every single second. But sometimes, the heart does not beat the way it should. When the rhythm of the heart changes, beating too fast, too slow, or irregularly—it is called cardiac arrhythmia.
Not all arrhythmias are dangerous. Some may cause no symptoms at all, while others may cause mild discomfort like palpitations. But in certain cases, they can signal serious heart disease and, if untreated, may even lead to sudden cardiac death. That’s why regular heart check-ups are so important.
An arrhythmia simply means that the heartbeat is not normal. Normally, the heart’s electrical system tells it when to beat. But when there’s a problem with this system, the heart may beat too quickly, too slowly, or unevenly.
Sometimes, arrhythmias are linked to:
These conditions disturb the way the heart pumps blood. In some people, arrhythmias may occur when they are resting, while in others they may show up during exercise or physical activity.
The most common and simple way to detect an arrhythmia is through an ECG (electrocardiogram). This test records the electrical activity of the heart. In some cases, doctors may ask for further tests to study the heart’s electrical system more closely. These tests don’t take long but can help identify serious conditions that may otherwise go unnoticed.
When the heart beats too fast, it may not pump enough blood to the brain. This can cause dizziness, faintness, or even loss of consciousness. These episodes can be frightening and often end up as medical emergencies. In severe cases, if immediate care is not given, the person may collapse and lose their life. A fast or irregular heartbeat reduces blood flow, which can affect not just the brain but also other vital organs. That is why timely diagnosis and treatment are so important.
In emergencies caused by dangerous arrhythmias, AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators) can save lives. These are small portable machines designed to deliver an electric shock to the heart. This shock can reset the abnormal rhythm and allow the heart to beat normally again. If someone collapses due to a sudden cardiac arrest, an AED can make the difference between life and death. That’s why public awareness about these devices is so important.
While AEDs and emergency care are lifesavers, preventing such situations in the first place is even better. The first step is regular health check-ups. Even if you feel healthy, simple tests like an ECG can pick up heart rhythm problems early. Lifestyle choices also matter:
Cardiac arrhythmias can sometimes be harmless, but in other cases, they can be deadly. Because the symptoms can be confusing—or sometimes not present at all, it is important to get your heart checked regularly. If you ever witness someone collapsing, remember that quick action can save a life. Call for medical help immediately. Our community becomes safer when more people are aware of these issues. By learning about arrhythmia, encouraging regular check-ups, and spreading knowledge about AEDs, we can reduce sudden deaths caused by heart rhythm problems. After all, the heart is at the centre of life—and taking care of it should be the centre of our attention too.
What is cardiac arrhythmia?
Cardiac arrhythmia is an abnormal heart rhythm where the heart beats too fast, too slow or irregular due to problems in its electrical system.
What are the warning signs of an arrhythmia?
Common signs include palpitations, dizziness, chest discomfort, breathlessness or sudden fainting. Some arrhythmias show no symptoms at all.
How is an arrhythmia detected?
Doctors use an ECG as the primary test. If needed, Holter monitoring or advanced electrical mapping tests help diagnose hidden rhythm problems.
Is arrhythmia dangerous?
Some are harmless, but severe arrhythmias can reduce blood flow to the brain and heart and may cause collapse or sudden cardiac arrest.
What should you do if someone collapses from a suspected arrhythmia?
Call emergency services immediately and use an AED if available. A quick shock can restore a normal heartbeat and save a life.
Can arrhythmia be prevented?
Healthy habits help balanced diet, regular exercise, no smoking, limited alcohol, stress control and routine heart check-ups like ECGs.
Why are AEDs important in arrhythmia emergencies?
AEDs detect abnormal heart rhythms and deliver a life-saving shock that helps restart normal heart function during sudden cardiac arrest.
Who is at higher risk of developing arrhythmias?
People with heart disease, high blood pressure, past heart attacks, valve problems or electrolyte imbalance have higher risk.
Prof. Dr. Ajith Pillai MD, DM, FIC (Germany) FRCP(Lon) FRCP(Edin) FRCP(Glasgow,) FACC, FSCAI Kauvery Hospital Chennai – Radial Road
Kauvery Hospital is globally known for its multidisciplinary services at all its Centers of Excellence, and for its comprehensive, Avant-Grade technology, especially in diagnostics and remedial care in heart diseases, transplantation, vascular and neurosciences medicine. Located in the heart of Trichy (Tennur, Royal Road and Alexandria Road (Cantonment), Chennai (Alwarpet, Radial Road & Vadapalani), Hosur, Salem, Tirunelveli and Bengaluru, the hospital also renders adult and paediatric trauma care.
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