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Heart Rhythm Disorders Causes

Among individuals without known heart disease, arrhythmias are generally random, isolated occurrences that do not carry any significance. However, a discussion with a physician is advised.

A variety of heart diseases cause arrhythmias. Heart disease can refer to patients with coronary artery disease, heart valve problems, heart failure, or disorders with heart conduction or high blood pressure. Remember, however, that having an arrhythmia does not necessarily mean that you have heart disease. Arrhythmias have many causes; sometimes the cause of an arrhythmia is never determined.

Sometimes, conditions other than heart disease may cause or aggravate arrhythmias. These conditions include the following:

• Infection or fever



• Physical or emotional stress



• Diseases such as anemia or thyroid disease



• Drugs and other stimulants, such as caffeine, tobacco, alcohol, cocaine, amphetamines, and certain over-the-counter and prescription medications



• Certain arrhythmias can be inherited as well