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Arrhythmia

From , former About.com Guide

Updated April 29, 2008

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Definition:

Arrhythmia is a general term that refers to any type of abnormal, disordered, or disorganized heart beat. There are many types of arrhythmias and many causes leading to arrhythmias.

Arrhythmias can be dangerous or benign (not immediately dangerous), but all arrhythmias represent some intrinsic problem that should be investigated by a doctor.

Some common arrhythmias include:

  • Atrial fibrillation (upper heart beats out of rhythm)
  • Ventricular fibrillation (lower heart beats out of rhythm)
  • Tachycardias (rapid heart beat)
  • Bradycardias (slow heart beat)

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