Arrhythmia

<p>Arrhythmia is a fancy word for irregular heartbeat. The term irregular simply means that the heart is not beating at a steady, regular pace. Extremely fast, slow and erratic heartbeats may be labeled irregular, however the patient's overall picture must be considered before jumping to conclusions. A runner, for instance, may be diagnosed with the arrhythmia of bradycardia -- or a heart rate less than 40 beats per minute. However, a slow heartbeat is normal in most athletes due to the strength of their heart muscle and supreme cardiovascular function.</p><p>Cardiac arrhythmias have myriad etiologies, from drinking too much caffeine to a peacemaking disorder within the heart. Some arrhythmias can be detected from simply taking a pulse -- the pulse will feel irregular, extremely fast or extremely slow. If you are concerned, see your doctor.</p>