Your Heart Rhythm

This article was adapted from a patient information booklet I published in 1991 that was entitled, "Your Heart Rhythm." I have expanded most topics to include technical aspects normally reserved for students of cardiology (to satisfy those cyberphiliacs who enjoy intellectually challenging their health care providers). This basic discussion will explain how the heart functions, where the normal heart rhythm comes from, how it is regulated by the body, and the various ways it can become disturbed. Detailed information on specific arrhythmias is also provided, so you can read about whatever pertains to your particular situation. It is best to start at the Introduction and click "next" at the bottom of each page. If you only need information about a specific arrhythmia, click on one of the topics below. For a more advanced discussion, see my article on

Advanced Topics In Arrhythmias.

Table of Contents

Introduction

Basic Physiology

The Cardiac Cycle

What Is Electrophysiology?

Arrhythmias 101

The Electrocardiogram

Arrhythmia Terminology

Sinus Bradycardia

"Sick Sinus Syndrome"

Sinus Tachycardia

AV Block

Atrial Premature Beats

Supraventricular Tachycardia

Atrial Fibrillation

Atrial Flutter

Ventricular Premature Beats

Ventricular Tachycardia

Ventricular Fibrillation

START HERE...

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