What causes fluttering sensations in the lower back of ribs. How to identify the source of rib fluttering. When should you seek medical attention for rib fluttering. What are the treatment options for fluttering sensations in the ribs. How to prevent fluttering sensations in the lower back of ribs.

Common Causes of Fluttering Sensations in the Lower Back of Ribs

Experiencing a fluttering sensation in the lower back of your ribs, particularly on the left side, can be concerning. This unusual feeling may have various underlying causes, ranging from benign muscle twitches to more serious cardiac issues. Understanding the potential reasons behind this symptom is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Muscle Fasciculations: The Most Likely Culprit

Muscle fasciculations, commonly known as muscle twitches, are often the primary cause of fluttering sensations in the rib area. These involuntary muscle contractions can occur in any part of the body, including the muscles overlapping the rib cage. When these muscles experience overexcitement or irritation, it can lead to a fluttering or twitching sensation.

Why do muscle fasciculations occur? There are several potential triggers:

• Stress and anxiety
• Dehydration
• Electrolyte imbalances
• Excessive caffeine consumption
• Lack of sleep
• Overexertion during exercise

In most cases, muscle fasciculations are harmless and resolve on their own. However, if they persist or cause significant discomfort, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional.

Gastrointestinal Activity: A Common Contributor

Another frequent cause of fluttering sensations in the lower left rib area is gastrointestinal activity. The stomach and intestines are located directly beneath this region, and their movements can sometimes be felt as a fluttering or bubbling sensation.

What types of gastrointestinal activity can cause these sensations?

• Digestion of food
• Gas movement through the intestines
• Stomach contractions
• Intestinal peristalsis (the wave-like muscle contractions that move food through the digestive tract)

These sensations are typically normal and not a cause for concern. However, if accompanied by pain, bloating, or changes in bowel habits, it’s worth discussing with a healthcare provider to rule out any underlying digestive issues.

Cardiac Considerations: When to Be Concerned

While less common, cardiac issues can sometimes manifest as a fluttering sensation in the lower rib area. The heart’s position in the chest cavity means that certain heart rhythm abnormalities or palpitations could potentially be felt in this region.

Identifying Cardiac-Related Fluttering

How can you differentiate between harmless muscle twitches and potential cardiac issues? Consider the following factors:

• Duration: Cardiac-related fluttering tends to last longer than brief muscle twitches
• Associated symptoms: Shortness of breath, dizziness, or chest pain accompanying the fluttering may indicate a cardiac issue
• Consistency: Regular or frequent episodes of fluttering, especially with exertion, could be a sign of an underlying heart problem
• Location: While possible, it’s less common for cardiac-related sensations to be felt primarily in the lower rib area

If you experience any of these signs or have concerns about your heart health, it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly. A healthcare provider can perform necessary tests, such as an electrocardiogram (ECG) or Holter monitor, to assess your heart rhythm and function.

Diagnostic Approaches for Rib Fluttering Sensations

When experiencing persistent fluttering sensations in the lower back of your ribs, it’s important to seek proper diagnosis to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment. Healthcare providers employ various diagnostic tools and techniques to identify the source of these sensations.

Physical Examination and Medical History

The first step in diagnosing the cause of rib fluttering sensations typically involves a thorough physical examination and discussion of your medical history. Your healthcare provider will likely ask questions about:

• The nature and duration of your symptoms
• Any associated pain or discomfort
• Your lifestyle habits, including diet, exercise, and stress levels
• Any pre-existing medical conditions
• Family history of heart or muscle disorders

During the physical examination, your doctor may palpate the affected area to check for any tenderness or abnormalities. They will also listen to your heart and lungs to detect any irregular rhythms or sounds.

Diagnostic Tests and Procedures

Depending on the suspected cause of your symptoms, your healthcare provider may recommend one or more of the following diagnostic tests:

1. Electrocardiogram (ECG): This non-invasive test records the electrical activity of your heart and can detect irregularities in heart rhythm.
2. Holter monitor: A portable ECG device that you wear for 24-48 hours to record your heart’s activity during daily activities.
3. Echocardiogram: An ultrasound of the heart that provides detailed images of its structure and function.
4. Blood tests: These can help identify electrolyte imbalances, thyroid dysfunction, or other underlying health issues that may contribute to muscle twitches or heart palpitations.
5. Electromyography (EMG): This test assesses the health of muscles and the nerves controlling them, which can be helpful if muscle disorders are suspected.

By utilizing these diagnostic tools, healthcare providers can more accurately determine the cause of your rib fluttering sensations and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

Treatment Options for Fluttering Sensations in the Lower Ribs

Once the underlying cause of your rib fluttering sensations has been identified, your healthcare provider can recommend appropriate treatment options. The specific treatment will depend on the diagnosis, but may include a combination of lifestyle changes, medications, and in some cases, more advanced interventions.

Lifestyle Modifications

For many individuals experiencing rib fluttering sensations, simple lifestyle changes can significantly reduce or eliminate symptoms. Some effective modifications include:

• Stress reduction techniques: Practicing relaxation methods such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga can help alleviate stress-induced muscle twitches.
• Improved sleep hygiene: Ensuring adequate, quality sleep can reduce muscle tension and fatigue-related twitches.
• Dietary adjustments: Limiting caffeine intake and avoiding trigger foods that may cause digestive discomfort can help reduce gastrointestinal-related sensations.
• Proper hydration: Maintaining adequate fluid intake helps prevent electrolyte imbalances that can contribute to muscle fasciculations.
• Regular exercise: Engaging in moderate physical activity can improve overall muscle health and reduce the likelihood of twitches.

Medications and Supplements

In some cases, your healthcare provider may recommend medications or supplements to address the underlying cause of your symptoms. These may include:

• Muscle relaxants: For persistent muscle twitches or tension
• Magnesium supplements: To address potential electrolyte imbalances
• Antacids or proton pump inhibitors: For gastrointestinal-related symptoms
• Beta-blockers or antiarrhythmic medications: If cardiac issues are identified

It’s important to note that any medication or supplement regimen should be undertaken only under the guidance of a healthcare professional to ensure safety and effectiveness.

When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention

While most cases of rib fluttering sensations are benign, there are certain situations where immediate medical attention is warranted. Being aware of these red flags can help you recognize when to seek prompt care.

Emergency Symptoms

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following symptoms along with the fluttering sensation:

• Severe chest pain or pressure
• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Dizziness or fainting
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat
• Sudden weakness or numbness, especially on one side of the body
• Severe abdominal pain

These symptoms could indicate a more serious underlying condition, such as a heart attack, stroke, or other medical emergency that requires immediate intervention.

Persistent or Worsening Symptoms

While not necessarily emergencies, the following situations warrant prompt medical evaluation:

• Fluttering sensations that persist for an extended period or occur with increasing frequency
• Symptoms that interfere with your daily activities or quality of life
• Fluttering sensations accompanied by unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or other systemic symptoms
• Any new or changing symptoms that cause you concern

Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health. If you’re unsure about the severity of your symptoms, don’t hesitate to contact your healthcare provider for guidance.

Preventive Measures and Long-Term Management

While not all cases of rib fluttering sensations can be prevented, there are several steps you can take to reduce their frequency and manage symptoms over the long term. Implementing these preventive measures can contribute to overall health and well-being, potentially minimizing the occurrence of these uncomfortable sensations.

Lifestyle Habits for Prevention

Adopting healthy lifestyle habits can play a significant role in preventing and managing rib fluttering sensations. Consider incorporating the following practices into your daily routine:

• Regular exercise: Engage in moderate physical activity for at least 30 minutes most days of the week. This can help improve muscle tone, reduce stress, and promote overall cardiovascular health.
• Balanced diet: Consume a nutritious diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. This can help maintain proper electrolyte balance and support overall health.
• Stress management: Implement stress-reduction techniques such as mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, or regular relaxation practices.
• Adequate sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to allow your body to rest and recover.
• Limit stimulants: Reduce or eliminate caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol consumption, especially if these substances seem to trigger your symptoms.

Long-Term Monitoring and Follow-Up

For individuals who have experienced recurrent rib fluttering sensations or have been diagnosed with an underlying condition, ongoing monitoring and follow-up care are essential. This may involve:

1. Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to assess your symptoms and overall health
2. Periodic diagnostic tests, such as ECGs or blood work, to monitor for any changes or progression of underlying conditions
3. Keeping a symptom diary to track the frequency, duration, and potential triggers of fluttering sensations
4. Adjusting treatment plans as needed based on your response and any changes in your health status

By staying proactive in your healthcare and maintaining open communication with your medical team, you can effectively manage rib fluttering sensations and maintain optimal health over the long term.

Alternative Therapies and Complementary Approaches

In addition to conventional medical treatments, some individuals find relief from rib fluttering sensations through alternative therapies and complementary approaches. While the effectiveness of these methods may vary from person to person, they can be considered as part of a holistic approach to managing symptoms and promoting overall well-being.

Exploring Alternative Therapies

Several alternative therapies have shown promise in addressing muscle tension, stress, and other factors that may contribute to rib fluttering sensations. Some options to consider include:

• Acupuncture: This traditional Chinese medicine technique involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to promote healing and relieve symptoms.
• Massage therapy: Regular massage sessions can help reduce muscle tension, improve circulation, and promote relaxation.
• Chiropractic care: Spinal adjustments and manipulations may help alleviate muscle tension and improve overall body function.
• Herbal remedies: Certain herbs, such as chamomile or valerian root, may have calming properties that could help reduce stress-related symptoms.
• Essential oils: Aromatherapy using oils like lavender or peppermint may help promote relaxation and reduce muscle tension.

It’s important to note that while these alternative therapies may provide relief for some individuals, they should not replace conventional medical care. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment regimen, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications.

Mind-Body Techniques

Mind-body techniques can be particularly effective in managing stress and anxiety, which are common contributors to muscle tension and fluttering sensations. Consider incorporating the following practices into your routine:

1. Yoga: Combining physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation, yoga can help reduce stress and improve overall body awareness.
2. Tai Chi: This gentle, flowing exercise practice can enhance balance, flexibility, and relaxation.
3. Biofeedback: This technique involves learning to control certain bodily processes, such as muscle tension, through the use of electronic monitoring devices.
4. Progressive muscle relaxation: This practice involves systematically tensing and relaxing different muscle groups to promote overall relaxation.
5. Guided imagery: Using mental visualization techniques can help reduce stress and promote a sense of calm and well-being.

By exploring these alternative therapies and mind-body techniques, you may discover additional tools to help manage rib fluttering sensations and improve your overall quality of life. Remember to approach these methods with an open mind and in conjunction with your primary healthcare plan for the best results.

Fluttering sensation in lower back of ribs

Anon

I have been experiencing fluttering sensation at the lower back of my ribs on the left side – what could be causing this?

1 March 2021

Thank you for contacting us with your question. In terms of the symptoms you’ve been experiencing, there are several possible reasons why this may be happening, one of the most common being muscle fasciculations, better known as twitching. Your rib cage is overlapped by a layer of muscles and overexcitement in an area of muscle can lead to a sensation of fluttering just as you describe.

The next most common cause of a fluttering feeling in the lower left rib area is thought to be due to activity and movement in the stomach and intestines, which lay directly beneath this area.

Thirdly, as the heart also lies within this region it’s possible that the fluttering is related to a rapid or abnormal heart rhythm (or palpitations) and this can be easily checked for you by your GP.

Under the circumstances it would be best to arrange to see your GP to discuss this sensation. They will check your pulse and listen to your heart and be able to eliminate this as a cause, or arrange to treat any underlying problem if one is identified. Rapid or abnormal heart rhythms are more commonly experienced in the chest and/or throat so this is less likely to be an issue for you but it’s worth checking, if only to put your mind at rest.

We do hope this information will be of use and good luck in getting this resolved.

Answered by the Health at Hand nurses.  

Sources and further reading

• Fluttering feeling in rib cage – Ask the Expert
• Heart palpitations – NHS Factsheet

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Fluttering feeling in my rib cage

Emily

I am experiencing fluttering feelings at the end of my rib cage, not in my stomach.

What could this be?

1 March 2021

The fluttering feeling in your rib cage could be heart palpitations.

Heart palpitations are the sensation of your heart beating. Many patients describe a fluttering feeling in the chest area, or their heart thumping or racing. These symptoms don’t usually last too long.

It’s worth checking your pulse at your wrist to see if the timing of the fluttering matches your heart rate. If the fluttering is regular and up to about 100 beats a minute (just under two a second) it’s rarely a cause for concern.

If you have heart palpitations and any of the following symptoms – such as shortness of breath, light-headedness, chest pain or fainting – please seek emergency medical attention. These symptoms could indicate a more serious problem that should be checked by a doctor straight away.

Causes of heart palpitations

There are a number of causes of heart palpitations. You’re more likely to become aware of non-worrying causes of palpitations when you’re at rest or in bed, as it’s easy to become aware of your heartbeat then.

Common causes of everyday heart palpitations include:

• Too much caffeine
• Intense exercise
• Sleep deprivation
• Rich or spicy food
• Dehydration
• Taking illegal drugs
• Alcohol
• Smoking
• Excitement or being nervous
• For women, hormone changes when you’re on your period, pregnant or during the menopause
• High temperature
• Stress, anxiety and panic attacks.

Visit our Health and Wellbeing centre for information and tips on managing many of these lifestyle factors, including cutting down on caffeine, getting a better night’s sleep, reducing your alcohol consumption, managing stress and much more.

Some medications can cause heart palpitations, for example:

• Inhalers, such as Ventolin
• Medication for high blood pressure
• Antihistamines
• Antibiotics
• Antidepressants
• Fungal medications.

You should check in with your doctor if you think your medication may be causing heart palpitations.

Certain medical issues can also cause palpitations, such as:

• Heart arrhythmias. These are problems that involve having an abnormal heart beat. Examples include supraventricular tachycardia or SVT – where you have a fast (150 beats per minute) but regular heart rhythm; and atrial fibrillation, where you get a fast or irregular heartbeat. Atrial fibrillation is the most common form of abnormal heart rhythm in the UK
• Heart conditions – such as heart disease, heart failure or valve problems
• An overactive thyroid
• Low blood sugar, often due to diabetes
• Anaemia
• Low blood pressure.

Again, if it’s possible your symptoms may be linked to any of the above – particularly if you don’t believe the common causes and medications listed above don’t apply to you – you should see your GP. They’ll be able to form some simple checks to either eliminate an underlying medical condition or arrange treatment if required.

Answered by the Health at Hand team

Useful resources

• Heart hub – AXA Health
• British Heart Foundation

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Heart alarm – For a healthy lifestyle! – Articles

Very often people complain of pain in the heart, but it turns out that the stomach hurts, suffers from osteochondrosis or stress has led to the development of depression. And the development of a heart attack is not recognized, they are attributed to the same stomach, osteochondrosis or even toothache. How to figure it out? Let’s try to help.

“angina pectoris”. That was the name in the old days of the disease that we now call angina pectoris. A heart attack usually begins with a pressing or burning pain in the center of the chest (doctors say “behind the sternum”) during exercise or stress, although it can develop at rest.

The pain is quite intense, can radiate to the lower jaw, shoulders and arms (more often to the left, but possibly both), to the neck, throat and back. Sometimes it disguises itself as bursting pains in the same areas or pains in the stomach (upper abdomen – epigastrium), simulating an intestinal disorder. The pain disappears at rest in a few minutes, and if you put a nitroglycerin tablet under the tongue (or spray a spray containing nitroglycerin) – almost instantly.

If such pain lasts longer than 20-30 minutes and its intensity increases, the development of a heart attack is not excluded. Timely assistance significantly reduces the risk of dying from a heart attack, so you need to call an ambulance team as soon as possible. Recording an ECG in a heart attack almost always helps to make a diagnosis.

Heart attack cancelled. Very often, young women come to the doctor with complaints of pain in the heart. How could it be otherwise, because through the heart we pass all our troubles, worries and joys. In this case, there is usually no cause for alarm.

In young women, “heart pain” is often functional, meaning it is not caused by angina pectoris. Female sex hormones protect blood vessels from the formation of atherosclerotic plaques. And if you look, “heart” pains bother women not in the area where “angina pectoris” likes to settle, but in the left half of the chest, in the armpit or under the left breast. They are, as a rule, in the nature of discomfort, stabbing or aching pain, and can last from half an hour to several hours or even days.

These feelings arise for various reasons. Stress, sleep deprivation, overwork, premenstrual periods…and, as a result, an anxiety or depressive disorder. The skeletal muscles are tense, on the shoulders they are compacted into painful lumps – “lumps of nerves”! Sometimes it is enough to have a short, but good rest, pleasant emotions.

In more serious cases, one has to seek help from a neurologist , a psychotherapist. Remember: the longer the depression lasts, the more difficult it is for the doctor to completely relieve you of discomfort, sleep disturbances and bad mood. However, in addition to stress, other reasons can lead to pain in the “heart area”.

“Bouquet of diseases”. Osteochondrosis, a disease of sedentary people, leads to pinching of the nerve roots and the development of pain. If the thoracic spine is involved, then it is the heart that falls under the patient’s suspicion – it pricks and pierces, lies on the chest with a lump or stone, catches with inhalations and sharp turns of the body, and aches for hours.

If such sensations occur during strong excitement, then the full impression of a heart attack can be formed. But the true cause of the pain in this case is the tension of the muscles of the neck and back. Unlike an attack of angina, which is quickly relieved by nitroglycerin, pain medications, massage, kneading the back with hydromassage jets can help, shock wave therapy. During examination, changes in the vertebrae can be found on an x-ray of the spine. But the ECG, even at the time of the most intense neuralgic pain, will be normal.

Chest pain may occur during a cold if it is complicated by bronchitis. Coughing can add discomfort, since already on the second day of a hacking cough, in addition to the bronchi, pectoral muscles will add to the pain. If the cold is complicated by pneumonia and pleurisy, then with a deep breath and exhalation, changes in pain can be noticed. The pain increases with inhalation, when the lungs straighten and “rub” against the inflamed pleura, and decreases with exhalation.

The doctor will recommend an X-ray of the lungs, listen with a phonendoscope for wheezing in the lungs.

Do not forget about the stomach, pancreas and gallbladder. A common cause of chest pain is intercostal neuralgia, herpes zoster, and in women – mastopathy. Regular palpations of the mammary glands must be carried out by women after 30-35 years, and if there is pain or induration, consult a doctor who will most likely refer you to an ultrasound of the mammary glands and mammography.

Gender matters, because it is in women that “heart pain” during examination turns out to be a mask of other diseases, and in men over 40 any “gastritis, osteochondrosis attack or sore tooth” may turn out to be a first-time developed heart attack. A timely visit to the doctor is necessary if the heart is at risk.

On the other hand, all the pains in the chest should not be blamed on the poor heart either.

Let’s try to figure it out, analyze our feelings and try to distinguish between an attack that can threaten health and functional pain.
– Stitching or aching pain in the left side of the chest, which does not give anywhere?
– The pain begins and goes away gradually, lasts a long time, for hours, and even days, if you are stressed?
– Physical activity does not cause or increase discomfort in the heart area, and sometimes even relieves it?
– The pain does not go away after taking nitroglycerin, but subsides with sedatives?

If you answered “yes” to most of the questions, you probably don’t have to worry about your heart. If so, complete the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and the CES-D questionnaire. Perhaps the stresses in your life have led to the development of depression and the consultation of a psychotherapist will relieve your “heart anxiety”.

Cardiac arrhythmia – signs and symptoms, treatment and prevention of arrhythmia

Article prepared by cardiologist Ksenia Nshanovna Borel

“I am worried about arrhythmia” is one of the most common complaints of cardiological patients of all ages.

In fact, there is no arrhythmia diagnosis. There is a specific violation of the rhythm and / or conduction of the heart, which must be recognized in time by the attending physician in order to take measures to eliminate it, if any.

I will not tire of singing praises to my heart: this is a unique organ not only in terms of its functions, but also in terms of its structural features. Did you know that the muscle of the heart (myocardium) is very unusual? It does not just mechanically contract like any other muscle in the human body.

In the thickness of the myocardium there are special cells of the conduction system that are capable of generating nerve charges, converting an electrical impulse into a mechanical muscle contraction: . It is he who is the power plant, which reproduces charges with a frequency of 60-90 per minute, which is the normal (in frequency and regularity) heart rhythm. Further, nerve impulses are transmitted to the underlying departments.

From the sinus node, the nerve impulse runs along three highways to the atrioventricular node. It is a kind of gateway with a selective throughput, and provides a physiological delay in the conduction of charges formed in the sinus node. The atrioventricular node is capable of generating nerve impulses at a frequency of 40-60 per minute (this is a II-order pacemaker).

The peculiarity of the conduction system of the heart is that its normal operation is regulated by the sinus node: the nerve impulses “born” in it propagate from top to bottom, occupying all conduction tracts, leaving no chance for other pacemakers to generate their own nerve impulses, suppressing their activity. Thus, if a patient develops an arrhythmia, it means that either the formation of a nerve impulse in the sinus node is disturbed, or the so-called ectopic (not from the conduction system) foci of the formation of a nerve impulse appear, or the conduction of a nerve impulse in various parts of the conduction system (they are blockades) .

How does a patient with arrhythmia feel?

Very often one hears from the patient various metaphors when describing their condition when they feel an arrhythmia. Often they say that the heart “gurgles”, “turns over”, “trembles”, “freezes”, “shakes like jelly”, “beats like a bird in a cage”, “pounds” and many others. Do you remember the words from the song of the group “Spleen”? “My heart stopped, my heart stopped…” Sasha Vasiliev sang about arrhythmia.

When talking with the patient, it is important to find out several factors that will help to guess the nature of the arrhythmia and determine its potential danger to life. So, if you are worried about arrhythmia, try to characterize it according to the following parameters:

• What provokes the appearance of arrhythmia? What is the cause of the arrhythmia?
• Does the arrhythmia begin paroxysmal or gradually, with a “warm-up” period?
• What is the pulse rate for arrhythmias?
• How long does the arrhythmia last?
• Do you feel pain in the heart area, shortness of breath, dizziness, low blood pressure during an arrhythmia? Or maybe even you develop a pre-syncope state or you briefly lose consciousness?
• Does the arrhythmia stop spontaneously? Or does it stop only after the use of certain drugs or when performing specific manipulations?
• How often do you have an arrhythmia? Is there a repetition period?

As you already understood, arrhythmias can be classified into paroxysmal (non-paroxysmal and paroxysmal) and permanent. In addition, arrhythmias can be with an increase (more than 90 per minute) or a decrease (less than 60 per minute) of the heart rate.

We must not forget that changes in heart rhythm can be normal. For example, sinus tachycardia in response to emotional experiences or physical activity performed. Conversely, sinus bradycardia during sleep under the influence of the vagus nerve or in professional athletes. In addition, the presence of up to 20 extrasystoles per hour when performing daily ECG monitoring is not considered a pathology.

What are the causes of arrhythmias?

The causes are diverse, but they can be standardized into 2 large groups, which often determine the tactics of patient management: they distinguish between organic (associated with anatomical defects in the structure of the heart and blood vessels) and functional (due to changes in the tone of the autonomic nervous system).

The main organic causes are ischemic heart disease and previous myocardial infarction, cardiomyopathy, previous myocarditis, heart failure with low ejection fraction, left ventricular hypertrophy (against the background of hypertension or valvular defects). Functional arrhythmias are more common in younger patients and are usually manifested by sinus tachycardia or sinus (respiratory) arrhythmia.

In addition, it is important to single out the so-called channelopathies, or electrical heart diseases, which, as a rule, are congenital pathologies in which the normal content of ions and electrolytes changes at the biochemical level.

There are a huge number of varieties of arrhythmias. Despite this, they are quite easy to diagnose. You just need to register an ECG. As a rule, the main difficulties may arise here: it is not always possible to record an ECG at the moment when the patient feels an arrhythmia.

It often happens that an ECG outside an arrhythmia attack is absolutely normal and not informative for diagnosing the nature of a heart rhythm disorder. I always recommend to my patients to call an ambulance or go to the nearest medical facility where they could record an ECG while the patient is experiencing arrhythmic sensations.

But it also happens that the arrhythmia persists for a very short time, or the heart rhythm returns to normal before the ambulance arrives. In such situations, it is necessary to recommend that the patient perform Holter (daily) ECG monitoring, in which the heart rhythm is recorded throughout the day. But here, too, a catch can be expected: in the absence of a daily frequency of arrhythmia, monitoring may be uninformative. Then it is necessary to conduct transesophageal pacing to actively provoke arrhythmias.

The treatment of arrhythmia directly depends on its nature and the causes that caused it.

• Organic arrhythmias require treatment of the underlying disease. For example, in patients with myocardial infarction, the appearance of ventricular extrasystoles is an unfavorable sign and may be associated with atherosclerosis of the coronary arteries.
• With functional arrhythmias, it is enough to normalize the regime of work and rest.