Arrhythmia: When Your Heart Loses Its Rhythm

The heart beats approximately 100,000 times per day with remarkable precision. This rhythm is controlled by electrical signals. When these signals don't work properly, the result is an arrhythmia—an irregular heartbeat.

Types of Arrhythmias

Tachycardia (fast heart rate, over 100 beats per minute):

• Atrial fibrillation (AFib): The most common arrhythmia
• Ventricular tachycardia: Can be dangerous

Bradycardia (slow heart rate, under 60 beats per minute):

• Sick sinus syndrome
• Heart block

Premature beats (extra beats):

• Usually harmless but can be uncomfortable

When Arrhythmias Are Dangerous

Not all arrhythmias are serious. However, some can prevent the heart from pumping enough blood, increase stroke risk, lead to heart failure, or cause sudden cardiac arrest.

Living with an Arrhythmia

Many arrhythmias can be effectively managed:

• Take prescribed medications consistently
• Limit caffeine and alcohol
• Don't smoke
• Manage stress
• Get adequate sleep
• Keep follow-up appointments

Treatment has advanced significantly—catheter ablation can cure many arrhythmias, and modern pacemakers are small and long-lasting.

"Ang regular na pagtibok ng puso ay tanda ng malusog na buhay." (A regular heartbeat is a sign of a healthy life.)