A bigeminy is a specific type of heart rhythm abnormality characterized by a recurring pattern of one normal heartbeat followed immediately by an extra, or premature, heartbeat. This creates a paired, or "twinned," beat pattern. According to the reference provided, bigeminy features a heart rhythm that has an extra heartbeat between every normal one.
Understanding Bigeminy
Essentially, instead of a regular heartbeat rhythm (beat...beat...beat...beat), a person experiencing bigeminy will have a rhythm that feels like (beat-extra beat...beat-extra beat...beat-extra beat).
Symptoms and Detection
While bigeminy itself is a heart rhythm, symptoms may be subtle or absent. The referenced information points out that many people don't experience any symptoms. However, some individuals might be aware of:
- Heart palpitations: A sensation of skipped heartbeats, fluttering in the chest, or a forceful heartbeat.
- Dizziness or lightheadedness (less common).
- Fatigue (less common).
Bigeminy is usually diagnosed during a physical exam, often detected via an electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG), or a heart monitor, which records the electrical activity of the heart.
Significance
The significance of bigeminy varies depending on the underlying cause and the overall health of the individual. While it can occur in healthy individuals, it can also be associated with other heart conditions. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and management.
