: An irregular and often rapid heart rhythm that can increase the risk of stroke or heart failure.
A normal rhythm, known as , starts in the sinoatrial (SA) node—the heart's natural pacemaker. This signal travels through the heart in a specific sequence, which is visualized on an electrocardiogram (ECG) as the PQRST wave pattern: cardiac rhythm
: Atrial contraction (top chambers pumping blood to the bottom chambers). : An irregular and often rapid heart rhythm
: A common, harmless variation where the heart rate slightly increases during inhalation and decreases during exhalation. : A common, harmless variation where the heart
: Ventricular contraction (bottom chambers pumping blood to the lungs and body). T Wave : Ventricular recovery (preparing for the next beat). Common Variations and Abnormalities (Arrhythmias)
Cardiac rhythm is the regular pattern of your heartbeat, controlled by the heart’s internal electrical system. In a healthy adult at rest, this rhythm typically falls between 60 and 100 beats per minute (bpm). Normal Cardiac Rhythm
Your heart rhythm naturally fluctuates based on activity, stress, or sleep. However, it is considered abnormal (an arrhythmia) when it is inappropriately fast, slow, or irregular. : A fast resting heart rate exceeding 100 bpm. Bradycardia : A slow resting heart rate below 60 bpm.
