Does your heart beat strangely sometimes? Let's talk about Bigeminy!

Do you sometimes feel like your heart is beating faster all of a sudden, or like it's beating in quick succession? Something strange in your chest, perhaps with a little pain. It's not good to ignore things like this. Today, let's talk about one possible cause of this, which is a condition called `(Bigeminy)`.

What is `(Bigeminy)`?

Simply put, `(Bigeminy)` is a small irregularity in the rhythm of our heart, that is, in the rhythm. In this, every second heartbeat of the heart comes as an extra beat before a normal beat, or `(premature contraction)`. That is, one normal beat, then an extra beat, again a normal beat, then an extra beat... That's how it goes. Think of it like this. Normally, an electrical signal comes from one place in our heart and makes the heart beat properly. Just like the main drummer of a drum group beats in one rhythm. Then this signal travels from the top of the heart to the bottom and the heart beats in an orderly manner. But in `(Bigeminy)`, another electrical signal starts from a different place in the heart, disrupting that normal pattern. This happens every second heartbeat. It's like after the lead drummer hits the drum, another drummer somewhere else on the field hits his drum, and they take turns hitting every second beat.

Are there types of `(Bigeminy)`?

Yes, this `(Bigeminy)` condition can start in different parts of the heart. Accordingly, there are two main types. 1. Atrial Bigeminy `(Atrial Bigeminy)`: This happens in the two upper chambers of the heart, that is, the atria. Here, those extra heartbeats come in the form of `(premature atrial contractions)`. 2. Ventricular Bigeminy `(Ventricular Bigeminy)`: This happens in the two lower chambers of the heart, that is, the ventricles. Here, the extra heartbeats come in the form of `(premature ventricular contractions)`.

What are the symptoms of `(Bigeminy)`?

Not everyone has symptoms. Some people may not notice anything even if they have ``Bigeminy''. However, for those who do have symptoms, these may happen:

• Feeling pain or tightness in the chest .
• Heart palpitations - Feeling like your heart is skipping a beat, or suddenly beating very fast.
• Feeling dizzy .
• Sometimes there may be fainting.
• Hyperventilation is the rapid, deep breathing.
• Feeling tired and fatigued.

Remember, if you have these symptoms, it is very important to see a doctor.

Why does this `(Bigeminy)` occur? What are the causes?

Bigeminy is caused by problems with the way the heart sends electrical signals. There are a number of conditions that can cause this. For example:

• If you have had a previous heart attack .
• If you have high blood pressure (we say the pressure is too high).
• Anemia ( low hemoglobin in the blood ).
• Increased activity of the thyroid gland ( Hyperthyroidism ) .
• Cardiomyopathy is a disease that weakens the heart muscle.
• Mitral valve prolapse is a problem with a heart valve.

Simply put, in addition to the signals coming from the heart's natural pacemaker, other cells in the heart itself can give the heart the signal to beat. Or, there may be some blockage in the normal pathways that carry signals to the heart.

Who is at higher risk of developing ``Bigeminy''?

There are certain things that increase the risk of ``Bigeminy''. Let's take a look at what they are:

• Coronary artery disease .
• Heart failure .
• Excessive use of caffeine (found in tea, coffee, and some drinks).
• Alcohol use.
• Use of tobacco products (such as cigarettes).
• Anxiety .
• Electrolyte levels in the body (such as sodium and potassium) increase or decrease beyond the appropriate level.
• Not getting enough sleep.

Some of these things we can control, right? We'll talk about that later.

Can Bigeminy cause other complications?

Yes, sometimes `(Bigeminy)` can cause the heart muscle to weaken. We call that condition `(Cardiomyopathy)` . But there is good news. If `(Bigeminy)` is successfully treated, for example with a treatment called `(catheter ablation)` , the `(Cardiomyopathy)` condition can also be cured.

How to diagnose `(Bigeminy)`? (Diagnosis)

When you go to see a doctor, he will first listen to your heart with a stethoscope. If you hear alternating normal and extra beats, the doctor may suspect the condition ``Bigeminy''. He will then order some tests to confirm it.

What kind of tests are done?

The following tests are usually ordered:

• Electrocardiogram (EKG):This is the main test that looks at the electrical activity of the heart. It can often identify ``Bigeminy''.
• Holter monitor: This is like a small EKG machine. It is worn on your body for 24 to 48 hours and records your heart rate during that time. If you don't have bigeminy all the time, it may not be picked up on a regular EKG.
• Blood tests : These are done to check things like electrolyte levels and thyroid hormone levels, as changes in these can also affect this condition.
• Echocardiogram: This can look at things like the shape, size, function of the valves, and function of the heart muscle. It's like a heart scan.
• Stress test: This involves running on a treadmill and looking at how your heart rate changes during exercise.

Does everyone need treatment for ``Bigeminy''?

Here's the important thing. If your EKG shows that you have Bigeminy, but you don't have any symptoms, you probably won't need any special treatment. However, those who do have symptoms definitely need treatment.

How is `(Bigeminy)` treated?

If you have symptoms of `(Bigeminy)`, doctors can treat you with medication. Sometimes, if the symptoms are accompanied by the previously mentioned `(Cardiomyopathy)`, a special treatment called `(catheter ablation)` may be necessary. The main hope of the medication given for `(Bigeminy)` is to slow down the heart rate. However, these medications may not always completely stop the `(Bigeminy)` condition or eliminate the symptoms. The treatment called `(catheter ablation)` is done for those who do not get relief from medication. The success rate of this treatment is 75% or more.

Specific medications/treatments used

The following are used as treatments:

• Beta-blockers
• Potassium channel blockers - for example, a medicine called amiodarone (Cordarone® or Pacerone®).
• Calcium channel blockers
• Catheter ablation - This involves passing a thin tube into the heart and disabling the area where the extra electrical signals are coming from.

Are there any side effects/complications of the treatment?

Any medicine can have some side effects. However, when compared to the benefits of the medicine, the side effects are usually not too serious. If you have any concerns, talk to your doctor. Some of the possible side effects of medicines for `(Bigeminy)` are:

• Dizziness
• Feeling lightheaded (Lightheadedness)
• Tiredness
• Upset stomach
• Headaches

Complications after catheter ablation are very rare. However, sometimes the following can occur:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Damage to a blood vessel or heart tissue
• Blood clots
• Stroke

How long does it take to recover after treatment?

It can take several weeks to fully heal after a catheter ablation. During this time, there may be some small amounts of "bigeminy."

How to reduce the risk of `(Bigeminy)`?

We can reduce our risk of developing ``Bigeminy`` by changing some of the risk factors we can control. See if you can do these things:

• If you have high blood pressure, control it.
• Avoid excessive caffeine intake. Limit things like tea and coffee.
• Limit alcohol consumption, or stop it completely.
• Get proper sleep every night.
• Find ways to manage anxiety . Things like meditation and yoga can help.
• Completely avoid tobacco products (cigarettes, bidis).

Although these are small lifestyle changes, they can have a big impact on your heart health.

What happens if there is `(Bigeminy)`?

If you don't have symptoms, there's not much you can do. You can live a normal life. However, if you have symptoms, your doctor will tell you to avoid things like caffeine, drugs, and alcohol. They may prescribe medication. Some people may also need a catheter ablation.

What is the health status of people with `(Bigeminy)`? (Outlook)

The future health of people with `(Bigeminy)` depends on whether they have other heart diseases and other risk factors. For people with other heart diseases, `(Bigeminy)` is a sign that the risk of death may be slightly increased. But for others, that is, people without other heart diseases, the risk of death is no higher than the average person. For people with `(Bigeminy)` without symptoms, the outlook is very good. There is nothing to worry about.

How do I take care of myself?

For best results, follow your doctor's instructions exactly. You may need to cut down on caffeine and find ways to reduce stress. If you are taking prescribed medication, take it exactly as directed on the bottle.

• Take your medicine on time as prescribed by the doctor.
• Be careful about what you eat and drink. Reduce caffeine, fatty foods, and sweets as much as possible.
• If you smoke, you must stop.
• Limit alcohol consumption.
• Exercise. But start by asking your doctor what exercises are right for you.
• Proper rest and sleep are essential.
• Reduce stress. Things like talking to friends, engaging in a hobby, and meditating can help.

When should I see a doctor?

It's important to keep your regular appointments. However, see your doctor immediately if:

• If you develop new symptoms , or if your existing symptoms change.
• If your symptoms get worse .
• If the medication you are taking is causing bad side effects .
• If you experience severe chest pain, difficulty breathing, or feel like you are losing consciousness , go to a hospital immediately.

What questions should I ask the doctor?

When you visit the doctor, it's a good idea to ask questions like these:

• How much caffeine should I cut down on?
• How often do I need to come for follow-up appointments?
• Can you recommend ways to reduce my stress?
• Can you refer me to a program that will help me quit using tobacco products?
• Can I exercise normally with this condition?
• What changes should I make to my diet?

Finally, the most important thing

You may feel a little anxious when your doctor tells you that you have extra beats in your heart, or ``Bigeminy''. That's normal. But remember, many people with ``Bigeminy'' who don't have symptoms don't need treatment. Talk to your doctor about whether you need treatment for ``Bigeminy''. Keep your appointments and take any prescribed medications. It's important to take care of your heart.

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