Tachycardia (fast heartbeat)
Tachycardia is indicated when the resting heart rate is greater than 100 beats per minute. There are many types of tachycardia. Some of the most common are:
- Atrial fibrillation, or AFib, is the most common form of tachycardia and characterized by a rapid, uncoordinated heart rate. AFib is often associated with stroke and other serious complications.
- Atrial flutter is similar to AFib, but with more organized heartbeats. It can also increase the risk of stroke and other complications.
- Supraventricular tachycardia is typically a focal area within the top chambers of the heart related to focal short-circuit or focus of electrical activity.
- Ventricular tachycardia is a rapid rhythm that originates in the bottom chambers of the heart and in some cases can be quite dangerous.
Bradycardia (slow heartbeat)
A resting heart rate of less than 60 beats per minute is technically considered bradycardia, but but not necessarily a problem if you are asymptomatic or physically fit. However, if you have a slow heart rate and are symptomatic, you may have a form of bradycardia that needs attention.
- Sick sinus syndrome affects the sinus node, which is responsible for setting the heart rate. Scarring near the sinus node can slow, disrupt, or block electrical pathways. This type of bradycardia most commonly occurs in older adults.
- As its name suggests, conduction block is a form of bradycardia that halts the travel of electrical impulses, causing the signals that trigger heartbeats to stop or slow down.