An arrhythmia is a change in the rhythm of your heartbeat. An irregular heartbeat is an arrhythmia (also called dysrhythmia). Heart rates can also be irregular. a normal heart rate is 50 to 100 beats per minute. Arrhythmias and abnormal heart rates don't necessarily occur together. Heart rhythm problems (heart arrhythmias) occur when the electrical impulses in your heart, that coordinate your heartbeats don't function properly causing your heart to beat too fast, too slow or irregularly. Heart arrhythmias are common and are usually harmless. Most people have occasional, irregular heartbeats that may feel like a fluttering or racing heart. However, some heart arrhythmias may cause bothersome (sometimes even life-threatening) signs and symptoms.

Heart arrhythmia treatment can often control or eliminate irregular heartbeats. in addition, because troublesome heart arrhythmias are often made worse, or are even caused by a weak or damaged heart, you may be able to reduce your arrhythmia risk by adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle.

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At some time or another, most people have felt their heart race or skip a beat. These occasional changes can be brought on by strong emotions or exercise. They are not usually a cause for alarm. Arrhythmias that occur more often or cause symptoms may be more serious and need to be discussed with your doctor. Arrhythmias may cause you to feel premature heartbeats, or you may feel that your heart is racing or beating too slowly. Other signs and symptoms may be related to reduced blood output from your heart. these include shortness of breath or wheezing, weakness, dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting or near fainting, and chest pain or discomfort. Seek urgent medical care if you suddenly or frequently experience any of these signs and symptoms at a time when you wouldn't expect to feel them.
Ventricular fibrillation is one type of arrhythmia that is deadly. A person with ventricular fibrillation will collapse within seconds and soon won't be breathing or have a pulse. If this occurs, to someone you know, follow these steps:

• Call 911 or the emergency number in your area.
• If you or someone nearby knows cardiopulmonary resuscitation (cpr), begin providing it if it's needed. Cpr can help maintain blood flow to the organs until an electrical shock (defibrillation) can be given.