The blocking of potassium channels delays the repolarization of cells, thereby resulting in QT prolongation - a process that slows the heart’s contractions. The flow of potassium ions results in rapid repolarization of the cells. Potassium channel blockers are drugs that bind to potassium channels, which help with the flow of potassium ions in the heart. People should follow the dosages recommended by their healthcare professionals and check the drug packet for more information on potential side effects. For example, side effects of quinine may include: The dosage varies depending on the type of sodium channel blocker. People can take sodium channel blockers orally or intravenously. ExamplesĬommon types of sodium channel blockers are: This makes them effective in treating ventricular tachycardia, atrial fibrillation, and flutter. Sodium channels are responsible for the conduction of an electric impulse through the heart and help coordinate its conduction system.īlocking the sodium channels can decrease the rate of transmission of an electric impulse. Sodium channel blockers bind to the sodium channels of the heart. People should follow the dosages recommended by a healthcare professional and check the drug packet for more information on potential side effects. Side effectsĬommon side effects of beta-blockers are bradycardia and hypotension (low blood pressure). Dosage is often twice daily, but certain types can be 3–4 times per day. Examplesīeta-blockers are available in intravenous or oral forms. Beta-blockers also help lower blood pressure, reducing the risk of heart attacks. They help to slow down the heart rate and are approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat tachycardia and cardiac arrhythmias. Beta-blockersīeta-blockers are a class of medication that binds to specific beta receptors and blocks the action of hormones such as adrenaline. Some common medications to treat arrhythmia and their side effects are detailed below. Doctors prescribe appropriate medications based on these factors. People must consult a healthcare professional to undergo accurate diagnosis and to understand the type and severity of arrhythmia. This can lead to cardiac arrest, heart failure, or stroke.Īccording to the NHLBI, people with an irregular heartbeat may need one or more medications alongside other treatments. However, if left untreated, they can damage the heart, brain, and other organs. Most cases of arrhythmia are treatable with medication or procedures. This can result in sudden cardiac arrest and death. Ventricular fibrillation: This occurs if the electric signals cause the quivering of ventricles instead of the usual pumping of blood.Ventricular tachycardia that lasts more than a few seconds can increase the risk of ventricular fibrillation. Ventricular tachycardia: The ventricles beat too fast and might last for a few seconds or longer.In most cases, it begins and ends suddenly and occurs commonly in young people. Paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT): Issues with the electrical signal that leads to extra heartbeats.This is the most common type of arrhythmia. Atrial fibrillation: The heart beats much faster than expected, causing inadequate pumping of blood to the lungs and the entire body.Atrial flutter: The upper chambers of the heart - the atrial - beat faster than the ventricle, the lower chambers of the heart.Premature heartbeat: The signal comes earlier, causing the heart to skip a beat.Bradycardia: The heart beats slower than 60 beats per minute.Tachycardia: The heart beats faster than 100 beats per minute.The heart may beat too slowly, too quickly, or irregularly. An irregular heartbeat, or arrhythmia, is a condition where the rhythm of the heart is not working correctly.Īccording to the National Heart, Blood, and Lung Institute (NHLBI), arrhythmias occur due to issues in the electrical signals within the heart, which helps control the rate of heartbeat.
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