Arrhythmia & Heart Rhythm

Arrhythmia is a heart rhythm disorder in which your heart beats too fast (tachycardia), too slow (bradycardia) or quivers irregularly (atrial fibrillation), instead of beating regularly. When the heart stops entirely, it is called cardiac arrest. Palpitations, lightheadedness and shortness of breath may be signs that you have an arrhythmia. An electrocardiogram (EKG) can diagnose the type of arrhythmia. Treatment includes medication or devices like pacemakers and surgery. Alcohol and some medications may cause arrhythmias.