Arrhythmias can cause serious problems for the mother and the baby, but follow can help
Pregnancy is a moment of great changes in the woman’s body – and the heart also feels these impacts. The possible changes include arrhythmias, which are heart rate disorders and can occur at any phase of life, but have a higher incidence in moments such as gestation and menopause due to hormonal oscillations.
“Most pregnancies occur without complications, but it is important to know that about 1-4% of pregnant women can have heart disease, often without a previous diagnosis,” explains Dr. Maria Alalyde Rivera, cardiologist and coordinator of the Brazilian area of the cardiac arrhythmia (Sobrac).
What are arrhythmias and what are the risks?
The arrhythmias occur when there is a change in frequency or leads the electrical impulses of the heart and can cause quick, slow or irregular beats. Some have no symptoms, while others can cause palpitations, fainting, lack of breath and chest pain.
“They can be benign and do not require treatment, such as isolated supraventricular and ventricular extrasTols, or may involve a significant risk, as in the case of atrial tachyritmias and prolonged ventricular, an advanced disease of the breast node, which requires adequate monitoring and treatment”, says the cardiologist.
Arrhythmias during pregnancy
In pregnancy, the increase in blood volume and hormonal changes can trigger or aggravate arrhythmias, especially in women with predisposition. In many cases, the symptoms can be light and transient, but in pregnant women with structural or electric heart disease, the situation can be more serious and request specific care.
“During pregnancy, all arrhythmias can be diagnosed, but not all require specific treatment. However, some may increase the risks for the mother and child and must be carefully monitored,” warns Dr. Maria Alalyde Rivera.
Arrhythmias and menopause
The woman’s heart also undergoes transformations into menopause. With the reduction of estrogen levels, there is an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, including arrhythmias.
“The loss of estrogen favors the accumulation of abdominal fat, increases blood pressure and glucose and cholesterol levels, which contribute to the development of atherosclerosis and diseases such as heart attack and sudden death of the heart, the latter triggered by the arrhythmias”, explains the cardiologist.
In addition, menopause women are more likely to develop atrial fibrillation, an army associated with factors such as hypertension and obesity. “This condition is related to the increase in the risk of stroke and, therefore, must be studied and treated, especially after menopause,” says the expert.
When to look for a doctor?
If the pregnant woman has frequent palpitations, dizziness, fainting or lack of breath, she should look for a cardiologist for an evaluation. A correct medical monitoring is essential to guarantee the health of mother and child, as well as to prevent complications.
In menopause, routine tests and heart health monitoring are essential to reduce the risk of arrhythmias and other cardiovascular diseases.
Taking care of the heart in all stages of life is an essential step to maintain the health and well -being of a woman.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
