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An arrhythmia is the word used to describe a change in the regular beat of the heart, such as "skipping a beat" or beating very fast or very slowly. Arrhythmias are common in middle-age adults. Usually there is no recognizable cause for an arrhythmia, but triggers can include stress, caffeine, tobacco, alcohol, diet pills, and certain medicines.
Arrythmias can be a sign of heart disease in some patients. In some people, an arrhythmia can be dangerous and requires ongoing care.
A physician may notice an arrhythmia with a stethoscope or may prescribe tests such as electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) or electrophysiologic study (EPS).
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