What it is
Causes include heart conditions, thyroid problems, some medicines, caffeine, alcohol and stress, but sometimes no cause is found.
Treatment depends on the type and may include medicines, procedures such as cardioversion or ablation, or a pacemaker or defibrillator.
Common signs
- Palpitations (a fluttering, pounding or skipping heartbeat)
- Dizziness or feeling faint
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Tiredness
How it is usually diagnosed
- ECG
- Heart rhythm monitoring over 24 hours or longer
- Echocardiogram
- Blood tests
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- ECGs and rhythm monitor reports
- Echocardiogram reports
- Cardiology letters
- Pacemaker or device check results
Questions to ask your doctor
- What type of arrhythmia do I have?
- Does it raise my risk of stroke?
- Should I avoid caffeine, alcohol or exercise?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- Palpitations with chest pain, fainting or severe breathlessness: call 112
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.