Sinus arrhythmia is a usually benign interruption in the heartbeat that originates in the sinus node of the heart, but other arrhythmias can be serious. It can be caused by medications, stress, environmental factors, and recreational drugs. A doctor may diagnose it through a physical exam or electrocardiograph. Patients with a history of sinus arrhythmia should keep their medical records for continuity of care.
Sinus arrhythmia is an interruption in the heartbeat that originates in the sinus node of the heart, where the heart’s natural pacemaker is located. A number of problems involving the heart’s natural rhythm can cause an irregular heartbeat. Sinus arrhythmia is usually benign, but can be a cause for concern in some cases. Other arrhythmias located in this node such as sinus bradycardia, where the heart beats too slowly, or sinus tachycardia, where the heart beats too fast, can be serious medical problems.
Children and young adults commonly have a natural sinus arrhythmia that resolves with age. Another common form of arrhythmia is a respiratory arrhythmia, characterized by small changes in heart rate associated with inspiration. In patients with this type of arrhythmia, the heartbeat changes slightly with each breath, but the patient is not in danger.
Sinus arrhythmia can also occur in response to medications, stress, environmental factors, and recreational drugs. Some of these arrhythmias can become dangerous if not corrected. Patients who repeatedly expose themselves to common causes of long-term heart arrhythmias can damage their hearts. This can lead to the development of a more serious arrhythmia that can put the patient at risk for heart attack or other medical complications.
A doctor may be able to feel sinus arrhythmia during a physical exam. If a doctor identifies irregularities in a patient’s heartbeat, an electrocardiograph may be recommended. In this test, leads are attached to the patient’s chest and the electrical rhythms of the heart are measured. A printout shows patterns of the patient’s heartbeats and this information can be used to diagnose a patient or learn more about a heart problem. If a cause for concern is identified, the patient can meet with the doctor to discuss the situation and talk about treatment options.
If a patient has a history of sinus arrhythmia, it will be noted in the chart along with the results of any medical tests conducted on the heart. This information can be helpful to other healthcare professionals by alerting them that the arrhythmia has been detected and processed. Patients switching doctors should be sure to request copies of their medical records so they can bring them to their first appointment. Having complete medical records increases the quality of care and will help a doctor provide continuity of care over the long term.
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