Junctional rhythm
Junctional Rhythm
Junctional rhythm (pronunciation: /ˈjʌŋkʃənəl ˈrɪðəm/) is a type of abnormal heart rhythm, or arrhythmia, that originates in the atrioventricular node (AV node).
Etymology
The term "junctional" is derived from the word "junction", which refers to the point of connection between two things. In this case, it refers to the junction or connection between the atria and ventricles of the heart, where the AV node is located. The term "rhythm" comes from the Greek word "rhythmos", meaning "measured flow or movement".
Definition
Junctional rhythm is characterized by a heart rate that is usually regular but slower than normal (bradycardia), and is caused by the electrical impulses that regulate the heartbeat originating from the AV node, rather than from the sinoatrial node (SA node), which is the heart's natural pacemaker.
Symptoms
Symptoms of junctional rhythm may include fatigue, dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting (syncope), or palpitations, which are feelings of having a fast-beating, fluttering, or pounding heart.
Causes
Junctional rhythm can be caused by various conditions that damage the heart's electrical system, including heart disease, heart attack, myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle), cardiomyopathy (disease of the heart muscle), and certain medications.
Treatment
Treatment for junctional rhythm depends on the cause and severity of the condition. It may include medications, lifestyle changes, or procedures such as pacemaker implantation.
Related Terms
- Arrhythmia: A condition in which the heart beats with an irregular or abnormal rhythm.
- Atrioventricular node (AV node): A part of the heart's electrical system, located at the junction of the atria and ventricles.
- Sinoatrial node (SA node): The heart's natural pacemaker, which normally initiates each heartbeat.
- Bradycardia: A slower than normal heart rate.
- Pacemaker: A small device that's placed in the chest or abdomen to help control abnormal heart rhythms.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Junctional rhythm
- Wikipedia's article - Junctional rhythm
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