Overview

In many cases there are no outward symptoms of arrhythmia, because the activity is too subtle to be felt. Yet there are some symptoms that may indicate arrhythmia. It's important to note that in most cases, arrhythmia is harmless, but in many cases--especially if you have heart disease or other heart problems--you should consult your doctor. Here are some of the more common symptoms of arrhythmia:

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• A faster-than-normal (racing) heartbeat
• A slower-than-normal heartbeat
• A feeling of fluttering in your chest
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Shortness of breath
• Fainting (also called syncope) or being on the verge of fainting (symptoms include lightheadedness, nausea, blurry vision, difficulty in hearing)
• Chest pain

Children with heart abnormalities may also experience arrhythmia. If they aren't old enough to describe their symptoms, signs of a problem may include fussiness (persistent crying with no apparent cause), feeding difficulties or loss of consciousness.

This section has more on when to see a doctor.