3. Rapid or Irregular Heartbeats – The Heart’s Distress Signal
Rapid or irregular heartbeats, medically termed as arrhythmias, often signify an enlarged heart. When the heart’s size increases, it can disrupt the organ’s electrical system, leading to abnormal heart rhythms.
Arrhythmias can range from harmless to life-threatening. They might manifest as a fluttering in the chest, a racing heartbeat, or a slow heartbeat. Some people describe it as the heart skipping beats, while others might even feel a sudden pause in their heartbeat.
An important aspect to understand about arrhythmias is that they’re not always consistent. They might come and go, occurring in random, unpredictable episodes.
This inconsistent nature can make it challenging to recognize the problem without professional medical evaluation. Despite their sporadic nature, these irregular heartbeats should not be brushed off, especially if they’re accompanied by other symptoms such as shortness of breath, dizziness, or fainting.
Remember, an arrhythmia isn’t merely an unusual heartbeat; it’s a signal that the heart’s electrical circuitry might be under stress due to conditions such as an enlarged heart. Therefore, it’s imperative to consult with a healthcare professional if you experience persistent or severe irregular heartbeats. (3)
