Heart Palpitations And Arrhythmia: Understanding The Connection

Arrhythmia is a common cardiovascular condition that affects the heart's normal rhythm. When the heart beats too fast, too slow, or irregularly, it can lead to noticeable heart palpitations. Many individuals who experience arrhythmias often describe feeling uneasy or anxious due to the abnormal heartbeat, which is commonly referred to as heart palpitations.

What Causes Palpitations In Arrhythmia Patients?

One of the primary reasons arrhythmia causes palpitations is the disruption in the heart's electrical signals. These disruptions can cause the heart to beat erratically, making the individual more aware of their heartbeat. This awareness often leads to a sensation of fluttering, pounding, or skipping beats in the chest.

Connection With Other Heart Conditions

In many cases, arrhythmia does not occur in isolation. It may coexist with other heart or cardiovascular conditions such as heart failure, coronary artery disease, or hypertension. When the heart is unable to pump blood efficiently due to these underlying issues, it can lead to symptoms like palpitations and shortness of breath.

The Role Of Blood Flow And Brain Oxygenation

Moreover, when arrhythmia affects the heart's ability to supply adequate blood to the brain, it can trigger a sensation of lightheadedness or dizziness, often accompanied by heart palpitations. Patients with reduced cerebral blood flow may also experience anxiety or a heightened sense of awareness, further amplifying the perception of heart palpitations.

Why Almost Everyone With Arrhythmia Feels Palpitations

Given the way arrhythmia disrupts normal heart function and the body's sensitivity to abnormal heart rhythms, it's no surprise that most people with arrhythmia experience palpitations. These sensations can occur at rest or during physical activity and may vary in intensity depending on the type and severity of the arrhythmia.