Arrhythmias Causes & Risks

Causes

An arrhythmia can be caused by:

The heart's natural pacemaker (SA node) developing an abnormal rate or rhythm
The normal conduction pathway being interrupted
Another part of the heart taking over as pacemaker

Conduction Pathways of the Heart

Risk Factors

A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition.

Risk factors include:

Excess caffeine
Stress
Tobacco use
Alcohol use
Certain diet pills or decongestants
Cocaine
Certain antidepressant medications
Digitalis overdose
Endocrine disorders, such as thyroid or adrenal gland problems
Anemia
High blood pressure
Coronary artery disease
Problems with heart valves
Heart muscle damage after heart attack
Rheumatic heart disease
Cardiomyopathy
Diabetes
Liver disease
Typhoid fever
Hypothermia
Electric shock or lightening strike
Complication after near-drowning

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2026 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.