Your heart functions to pump blood to your other body organs. The pumping action, or contractions, are coordinated by your heart's own electrical system. An irregularity in this electrical system is called an arrhythmia, or heart rhythm disorder. Arrhythmias are very common, affecting millions of people world-wide, and can show up as heart rates that are too slow or too fast. These abnormal heart rhythms may be unnoticed, or may result in palpitations, dizziness, or fainting.
Most arrhythmias are harmless, but some can be serious and can cause sudden cardiac death.
Recent advances in medical technology have resulted in treatments that can control or eliminate many arrhythmias. New treatments also can significantly prolong the lives of people at high risk for fatal arrhythmias. This educational material will provide you with an overview of arrhythmias and their treatments. If you need more information about any of the conditions described in this material, your physician is your best resource. The normal heart is about the size of a clenched fist.