MEDICAL TERMS MADE EASY

Navigate complex medical terms in this glossary

Palpitations

Palpitations are a sensation that the heart is not beating in a normal rhythm and can be the symptom of many different heart rhythm problems. Some descriptions of palpitations that are commonly expressed are thumping, heart racing, fluttering and skipping beats, amongst others. The way that people experience palpitations can be quite variable and can depend on what they are doing at the time.

ARRHYTHMIA

Arrhythmia is a technical term for an abnormal heart rhythm. The type of arrhythmia is determined by where the circuit producing the heart rhythm abnormality arises from within the heart. There are a number of causes for arrhythmias, some of which can be quite serious such as a heart attack. Some causes can be inherited, such as long QT syndrome. However, most common arrhythmias are as a result of a combination of lifestyle and a susceptibility to the arrhythmia. Arrhythmias in people with pre-existing heart problems should always be taken more seriously. Severe symptoms associated with arrhythmias such as blackouts, chest pain and breathlessness can potentially indicate a serious underlying condition and emergency assessment should always be sought.

Most arrhythmias are treatable. The treatment for the arrhythmia depends on the type. However, treatments can include lifestyle changes, medication, cardioversion (resetting the heart with electricity), implanted devices such as pacemakers and catheter ablation.

Blackouts / fainting

Blackouts are a symptom, also known as transient loss of consciousness (T-L OC) or syncope. There are a multitude of causes for blackouts ranging from benign fainting all the way up to very serious causes which are potentially life-threatening. Most causes of blackouts aren’t serious, but some blackouts need to be investigated further to rule out any underlying causes, for example, slow or fast heart rhythm problems. Blackouts occurring in people with underlying heart condition should always be taken seriously and should lead to urgent assessment.

Bradycardia

Bradycardia is the technical term for having a slow heart rate (less than 60 bpm). There are a number of heart rhythm problems that can lead to slow rates that can potentially lead to blackouts. However, in some very athletic individuals, a slow heart rate may be normal for them.

tachycardia

Tachycardia is the technical term for a fast heart rhythm. There are a number of conditions that can cause a fast heart rhythm which are discussed under the different headings for each condition.