Clinically, abnormal heart rates are arrhythmias, which can be categorized into tachyarrhythmias and bradyarrhythmias based on the speed of the heart rate during the onset of the abnormal heart rate. The former is seen in premature beats, tachycardia, atrial fibrillation and ventricular fibrillation, while the latter is commonly seen in sinus bradyarrhythmia and various conduction blocks.
The diagnosis of abnormal heart rate relies primarily on the electrocardiogram, but in a significant number of patients a preliminary diagnosis can be made on the basis of the history and signs of the heart rate, rhythm, and the beginning, end, and duration of the episode. The presence of hypotension, syncope or near-syncope, convulsions, angina pectoris, or heart failure during the episode, as well as the trigger, frequency, and course of treatment of previous episodes, can help to determine the nature of the abnormal heart rhythm.
Treatment of abnormal heart rate should include treatment and prevention of episodes, which can be categorized into pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic treatments in addition to etiologic treatments.
It is important to live a regular life, develop the habit of working and resting on time, ensure sleep, and when abnormal heart rate occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention in a timely manner.