Arrhythmias

Ectopics are due to premature firing of the heart from the atrium (atrial ectopics) or ventricle (ventricular ectopics). Majority are benign but some may lead on to atrial fibrillation or PVC induced cardiomyopathy or VT.

Rapid rhythm of the heart due to a short circuit in the atrium. Can lead to heart failure if the ventricular rate is rapid.

Irregularly irregular rhythm of the heart that can result in stroke, heart failure and increased risk of death.

Rapid racing of the heart due to short circuits in the atrium and may be due to AV node reentry tachycardia, accessory pathway mediated tachycardia or a focal atrial tachycardia.

Described by Drs Wolff, Parkinson and White and is due to an accessory pathway connecting the atrium and ventricle. Can result in rapid SVT or atrial fibrillation with a preexcited tachycardia. Rarely can cause sudden death.

Rapid racing of the heart due to rapid ventricular activation. Usually associated with underlying heart disease and can degenerate to ventricular fibrillation and sudden death.

Occurs mainly in males and is a cause of sudden cardiac arrest in young males often at rest or during their sleep.

Due to ionic channel abnormalities which results in the Long QT syndrome, short QT syndrome, Cathecholaminergic Polymorphic VT.

Pacemakers, ICD and CRT may malfunction and may need appropriate management including device and/or leads extraction if necessary.