Substances

Abusing legal or illegal drugs can lead to dangerous arrhythmias.

Caffeine is the most common substance linked with abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias). Some people feel heart palpitations (fast heartbeats) when they drink coffee or tea or eat chocolate. Red wine and eating too much can bring about symptoms in others. These rhythm problems are rarely serious.

Small amounts (no more than one drink a day) of alcohol may lower the risk of heart problems and increase “good” cholesterol (HDL cholesterol). But for some people, alcohol can cause heart rhythm disturbances. Alcohol abuse is a major risk factor for High Blood Pressure, cardiomyopathy (weak heart muscle), heart failure and stroke.

Tobacco (cigarettes) causes more heart and blood vessel disease, stroke and heart-related deaths than all illegal drugs combined. It contributes to as much as one-third of all heart disease.

Some herbs and other substances used in over-the-counter remedies are believed to improve abnormal heart rhythms. Others can make them worse or interfere with heart medications. Diet pills can be especially dangerous. Patients should always talk to a healthcare provider before taking any medication or supplement.

While most medications prescribed by doctors are beneficial to health, some can cause serious side effects. Certain medications commonly prescribed for arrhythmias, heart disease and High Blood Pressure can themselves cause problems, including heart rhythm disturbances. Patients should watch for symptoms and discuss any changes with a doctor or healthcare provider.

Hundreds of substances in the environment can cause arrhythmias, heart disease and death. In general, the people at greatest risk are those who handle or come into contact with dangerous substances in the workplace.  Some of the substances that can cause problems are: automobile emissions, cigarette smoke, pollution from industrial plants, paint thinners and propane gas.