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Maryland Heart Center

Arrhythmias

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Causes and Symptoms

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Get answers to your Arrhythmia questions.

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Note: This is for informational purposes only. Doctors cannot provide a diagnosis or individual treatment advice via e-mail. Please consult your physician about your specific health care concerns.

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Many people who have arrhythmias have underying heart disease. They may suffer from coronary artery disease, heart valve disorders, hypertension or other cardiac conditions. Imbalances of blood chemistries may also cause arrhythmias. Arrhythmias however, can occur in patients with no known heart disease.

Arrhythmias can also be caused by some substances or drugs. These include:

Antiarrhythmics
Beta blockers
Psychotropics
Sympathomimetics
Caffeine
Amphetamines
Cocaine

Symptoms

Some common symptoms you may experience can include:

Sensation of feeling the heart beat (palpitations)
Fainting
Lightheadedness, dizziness
Chest pain
Shortness of breath
Weakness and fatigue
Changes in the rate, rhythm, or pattern of the pulse

If you have questions about your heart rhythm or symptoms, please check with your doctor.

Please call if you would like to make an appointment or talk to someone about our services. Patients dial 1-800-492-5538 or 410-328-5842, physicians dial 410-328-6622 or 1-800-318-1019.

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