IMED German Clinic

Introduction

Cardiac arrhythmias affect many people from middle age onwards, often without them noticing it at first. Irregular heartbeats, sudden palpitations or unexplained fatigue are typical. The causes are diverse and the consequences can be serious. It is therefore important to recognize the signs early, to obtain an informed diagnosis and to find individualized treatment methods, whether conventional or natural. Especially in regions such as the Costa del Sol, it is essential to know where to go in case of emergency.

What are cardiac arrhythmias?

Cardiac arrhythmias (arrhythmic cardiac events) occur when the electrical conduction of the heart is disturbed. Normally, the heart beats at a regular rhythm, approximately 60 to 100 times per minute. If this rhythm is too fast (tachycardia), too slow (bradycardia) or irregular, it is called a cardiac arrhythmia.

There are different types:

  • Extrasystoles: extra beats, often harmless.
  • Atrial fibrillation: rapid, uncoordinated atrial contractions
  • Ventricular tachycardias: life-threatening forms of structural heart disease
  • Bradycardias: slow heart rate, common in the elderly.

How are cardiac arrhythmias recognized?

Typical symptoms

Cardiac arrhythmias manifest themselves through a variety of discomforts, some noticeable, others more subtle:

  • Palpitations or sensation of pounding heartbeat
  • Irregular heartbeats (extrasystoles)
  • Dizziness, nausea
  • Momentary loss of consciousness (syncope)
  • Tightness in the chest

These symptoms usually appear as episodes and disappear within minutes, making diagnosis difficult.

Nonspecific discomfort

In chronic cases or with mild arrhythmias, patients report:

  • Fatigue
  • Decreased physical performance
  • Reduced stress tolerance
  • Inner nervousness

Cardiac arrhythmias in the elderly

At older ages, cardiac arrhythmias are more frequent, usually in combination with other cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension or heart failure. Symptoms such as fatigue or dizziness are often mistakenly attributed to age, which may delay a specific diagnosis.

Causes and risk factors

Cardiac arrhythmias arise from a disturbance in the interaction of the heart’s electrical impulses. The causes of cardiac arrhythmias range from organic diseases to external factors:

  • High blood pressure
  • Coronary artery disease (narrowing of the coronary arteries)
  • Valvular defects or cardiomyopathies
  • Lack of sleep or physical activity
  • Alcohol, caffeine, nicotine consumption

Risk Factors

  • Age over 50 years old
  • Family history
  • Diabetes mellitus
  • Medications (e.g. diuretics, antidepressants)
  • Electrolyte disorders (e.g., potassium deficiency)

Stress arrhythmias

Chronic stress continuously activates the sympathetic nervous system, which leads to increased heart rate, tension and reduced resilience of the heart. Relaxation techniques, mindfulness and specific breathing exercises can bring the heart rate back into harmony.

Influence of food

An imbalance in essential minerals can promote cardiac arrhythmias. Magnesium and potassium are particularly important. Excessive consumption of sugar, alcohol or highly processed foods also has negative effects on the cardiovascular system.

Diagnosis of cardiac arrhythmias

The diagnosis of cardiac arrhythmias is usually made by:

  • Resting ECG: measures the electrical rhythm of the heart in a doctor’s office.
  • Holter ECG: rhythm recording for 24-72 hours.
  • Event recorder: portable device for patients with rare symptoms.
  • Exercise ECG: observation of the rhythm during physical activity.

Additionally, echocardiography and imaging techniques can be used to rule out structural heart disease.

In case of unclear symptoms or previous diseases, an evaluation by an internist, cardiologist or specialized electrophysiologist is recommended.

Treatment of cardiac arrhythmias

Therapy depends on the type, cause and severity of the arrhythmia. The goal is to control symptoms, prevent complications (e.g., stroke) and improve quality of life.

Drugs for cardiac arrhythmias

Depending on the diagnosis, the following drugs may be used to stabilize the heart rhythm:

  • Antiarrhythmics (e.g., flecainide, amiodarone)
  • Beta-blockers (reduce heart rate and electrical conduction)
  • Calcium antagonists
  • Anticoagulants (especially in case of atrial fibrillation to prevent strokes)

Medication limitations: Some medications may cause arrhythmias or other side effects, so treatment should be monitored regularly.

Natural treatment of cardiac arrhythmias

A holistic therapeutic approach also takes into account lifestyle and natural medicine measures. In coordination with the physician, they can be used as support:

  • Physical exercise and relaxation techniques (Qi Gong, yoga, Tai Chi)
  • Breathing exercises to reduce vagal tone
  • Targeted nutrient intake (magnesium, potassium, omega-3 fatty acids)

Nutritional advice for cardiac arrhythmias

  • foods rich in magnesium on a regular basis (e.g., nuts, green leafy vegetables, whole grains)
  • diet rich in potassium (e.g., bananas, dried fruits)
  • low alcohol and caffeine consumption
  • drinking plenty of water (especially during the heat in Spain!)

Herbal remedies such as hawthorn, lemon balm or passionflower may have a calming effect on the vegetative nervous system. Their use should be previously consulted with a physician to evaluate benefits and risks.

Cardiac arrhythmias and sport

Regular physical activity has a preventive effect, but not all sports are suitable in case of arrhythmias. They are recommended:

  • Endurance sports such as Nordic walking, swimming, cycling, etc.
  • Moderate strength training
  • Disciplines with a meditative component

In the presence of more severe arrhythmias, a cardiological evaluation should always be performed before starting a sports program.

Differences between cardiac arrhythmias and atrial fibrillation

Many patients wonder what is the difference between atrial fibrillation and cardiac arrhythmias. Atrial fibrillation is a specific form of arrhythmia and one of the most common. In this case, the atria beat rapidly and chaotically, which increases the risk of stroke.

Atrial fibrillation usually requires:

  • Anticoagulation for stroke prevention
  • Rhythm or heart rate monitoring
  • Ge