Are you experiencing abnormal heart rhythms, or are you just a bit confused about the terms? The exact definitions for heart arrhythmia vs dysrhythmia may differ depending on the person.
Heart arrhythmia, or irregular heartbeats, may not seem like a big deal at first. However, they can become life-threatening if you don’t get them checked out.
We’ve got the pros and cons for both below. Stay with us to brush up on the difference.
The Definition
Heart arrhythmia and dysrhythmia are both abnormal heart rhythms. Arrhythmia is an irregular heart rhythm that may be fast, slow, or irregular. Dysrhythmia is a heart rhythm that is abnormal in rate, rhythm or both.
Arrhythmia can be caused by a variety of factors, including heart disease, electrolyte imbalance, or stress. Dysrhythmia is often caused by heart disease, but can also be caused by electrolyte imbalance, medications, or other factors.
The Causes
Some arrhythmias are caused by abnormalities in the heart’s structure, such as congenital heart defects. Others may be the result of problems with the heart’s electrical system, such as Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome.
Dysrhythmias, on the other hand, are always abnormal and are usually caused by problems with the heart’s electrical system. These problems can be the result of damage to the heart from a heart attack, heart disease, or other conditions.
The Symptoms
The symptoms of heart arrhythmia vs dysrhythmia can be very similar, but there are some key differences. Arrhythmia is characterized by an irregular heart rate, while dysrhythmia is characterized by an abnormal heart rhythm.
Both conditions can cause symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, and lightheadedness. However, arrhythmia is more likely to cause palpitations, while dysrhythmia is more likely to cause dizziness or fainting.
While both conditions can be serious, arrhythmia is usually less serious and easier to treat.
The Treatment
Medications used to treat arrhythmias include beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and antiarrhythmic drugs.
These medications work to slow the heart rate, improve blood flow, and prevent further arrhythmias. Electrical cardioversion is a procedure that uses electricity to reset the heart’s rhythm.
Pacing is a treatment used for some types of dysrhythmias. A pacemaker is a small device that is placed under the skin and sends electrical impulses to the heart to help it maintain a normal rhythm. Pacing is usually reserved for more serious cases of dysrhythmia.
The Prognosis
The prognosis of heart arrhythmia vs dysrhythmia can be determined by looking at the differences in the two conditions. Arrhythmia is a condition where the heart rate is irregular and may be too fast or too slow.
Dysrhythmia is a condition where the heart rate is not rhythmic and may be irregular.
Both conditions can be serious and can lead to complications. Treatment for both conditions can be difficult and it is important to seek medical help if you think you may have either condition.
Both can be associated with atrial fibrillation. Learn more here and know who is usually at higher risk.
Know About the Difference Between Arrhythmia vs Dysrhythmia
The prognosis of arrhythmia vs dysrhythmias can be quite different. untreated arrhythmias can often lead to serious consequences, such as heart failure or stroke, while dysrhythmias may not have as serious of consequences.
It is important to seek medical attention if you experience any irregular heartbeats so that the proper treatment can be initiated.
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