arrhythmia
Meaning of arrhythmia: An abnormality in the rate or rhythm of the heartbeat.
Definition of arrhythmia
An arrhythmia occurs when the heart beats too quickly, too slowly, or with an irregular pattern because of a change in its electrical signaling. Some arrhythmias are harmless; others can reduce blood flow or raise the risk of complications.
Also known as
dysrhythmiairregular heartbeat
Used in a sentence
An electrocardiogram was ordered to evaluate the suspected arrhythmia.
Good to know
Symptoms may include palpitations, dizziness, shortness of breath, chest discomfort, or no symptoms at all.
Word origin
Where “arrhythmia” comes from
Built from Greek a-, “without,” and rhythmos, “rhythm.”