Ventricular arrhythmias refer to irregular heartbeats that begin in the heart's lower chambers, known as the ventricles. These disturbances affect the heart’s electrical signaling and can interfere with its ability to pump blood effectively.
Some ventricular arrhythmias, like premature ventricular contractions (PVCs), are usually harmless and may not require treatment. However, more serious types, such as ventricular tachycardia (VT) a rapid, regular rhythm and ventricular fibrillation (VF) a dangerously disorganized rhythm can be life-threatening. VT can lead to symptoms like palpitations, lightheadedness, or fainting, while VF may result in sudden cardiac arrest if not treated immediately with defibrillation.
These arrhythmias can be triggered by underlying heart conditions, past heart attacks, imbalances in electrolytes, certain medications, or inherited heart disorders. Management strategies vary based on severity and may include antiarrhythmic drugs, electrical devices like implantable defibrillators, catheter-based procedures, or emergency resuscitation efforts.