What are the causes of arrhythmia?
Normally, a heartbeat is initiated by the pacemaker of the heart (the sinus node). However, almost any part of the heart is also capable of starting a heartbeat. If the pacemaker develops an abnormal rhythm or if another part of the heart starts a heartbeat, an arrhythmia will occur. Arrhythmias may be caused by various types of heart disease such as: a problem with the pacemaker of the heart; heart block, where electrical signals are unable to pass through the heart as normal; or extra beats starting in the atria or ventricles. In many people, the cause of the arrhythmia is not serious. It may be caused by caffeine (eg, in coffee or cola), alcohol or tobacco. Other causes may include some appetite suppressant drugs, some cough and cold medicines, and stress. In these people, symptoms will disappear if the triggering factor is removed. Sinus arrhythmia is a very common arrhythmia that occurs when a breath is taken. It is common in children but is also found in adults and is quite norma
