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Heart rhythm problem (arrhythmia)

Also called: Arrhythmia, irregular heartbeat, heart rhythm problem

A heartbeat that's too fast, too slow, or irregular. Some are harmless; others, like atrial fibrillation, need treatment.

Common typeAtrial fibrillation
TestsECG, heart monitor
TreatmentMedicines, procedures, devices

Overview

Caffeine, alcohol, and stress can trigger extra beats.

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • Irregular or racing heartbeat
  • Irregular, skipping, or fluttering heartbeat

Less common

  • Dizziness

Look up a symptom: Dizziness · Feeling faint or about to pass out · Irregular, skipping, or fluttering heartbeat · Racing or pounding heartbeat

When to get medical care

Call 911Fainting, chest pain, or shortness of breath.
Get care todayA racing heart that won't slow.
See a doctor soonIrregular heartbeat.

Causes

Heart disease, aging, triggers.

Does it spread or run in families?

  • It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

  • Older age

Possible complications

Diagnosis

Tests record the rhythm.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

  • ECG:
  • Heart monitor:

Treatment

Avoid triggers.

Self-care

  • Limit caffeine and alcohol
  • Treat sleep apnea

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

MedicineHelps withGood to know
Rhythm medicines
Rate
Blood thinners
Stroke prevention in AFib

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Which doctor treats this

  • Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
  • They may send you to a cardiologist or electrophysiologist (heart rhythm doctor).

Living with it

Support groups and helplines

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

  • If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
  • This condition needs closer checkups during pregnancy. Plan ahead with your doctor.
  • Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
  • Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
  • Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Treatable.

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Heart rhythm problem (arrhythmia)

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-12.