4. Irregular Heartbeat: A Sign of Cardiac Distress
Cardiac amyloidosis can cause irregular heartbeats, also known as arrhythmias. This occurs when the amyloid deposits disrupt the heart’s electrical system, leading to abnormal heart rhythms. Patients may experience palpitations, skipped beats, or a fluttering sensation in the chest.
There are several types of arrhythmias associated with cardiac amyloidosis, including atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, and ventricular tachycardia. While some arrhythmias may be harmless, others can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.
Atrial fibrillation is a condition where the atria, or the upper chambers of the heart, contract in an uncoordinated and irregular manner. This can lead to a rapid and irregular heartbeat, which can cause symptoms such as shortness of breath, dizziness, and chest pain.
Ventricular tachycardia is a condition where the ventricles, or the lower chambers of the heart, beat rapidly and out of sync with the upper chambers. This can lead to symptoms such as palpitations, chest discomfort, and fainting. In severe cases, ventricular tachycardia can lead to cardiac arrest, which is a life-threatening condition.
Heart block is a condition where the electrical signals that control the heartbeat are delayed or blocked as they pass through the heart’s electrical system. This can lead to a slower heartbeat or a complete interruption of the heartbeat. Symptoms of heart block can include fatigue, dizziness, and fainting.
The symptoms of arrhythmias associated with cardiac amyloidosis can be severe and debilitating. They can reduce the quality of life of affected individuals and increase the risk of complications such as heart failure, stroke, and sudden cardiac death. Therefore, it is essential to diagnose and treat cardiac amyloidosis and its associated arrhythmias as soon as possible.
Cardiac amyloidosis can cause various arrhythmias that can be severe and life-threatening. It’s essential to consult a healthcare professional if you experience persistent or severe irregular heartbeats. (4)
