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Arrhythmia
What is an arrhythmia?
An arrhythmia is an abnormal beating (rhythm) of the heart.
What causes an arrhythmia?
An arrhythmia can be due to a problem with the heart itself (e.g., abnormal structure due to congenital heart disease ) or due to another problem (e.g., viral infection, hypoglycemia) causing the heart to malfunction.
How do we diagnose an arrhythmia?
The fetus with an arrhythmia can be diagnosed by a sonogram while in the uterus. Newborns with an arrhythmia might have evidence of poor heart function, such as poor color, respiratory distress, low blood pressure, and/or poor perfusion. EKG, CXR, blood tests, and an echocardiogram of the heart might be performed. The cardiologist might be consulted.
How do we treat infants with an arrhythmia?
It is important to try to determine the cause of the arrhythmia so that treatment is appropriate. Usually, medicines can be given to the baby to help improve or normalize the heart rate. Sometimes, an electrical shock must be given to normalize the heart rate.
What are the long-term effects of an arrhythmia?
The outcome of an arrhythmia depends on the cause, but usually can be treated. Some babies are discharged on medicines, and might be followed-up by the cardiologist. Other times, the cause might be one that is incurable and resulted in permanent damage. Some of these babies do not survive.
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