| Abstract [eng] |
Autonomic Nervous System and Arrhythmias: A Literature Review Cardiac arrhythmias are a common and can vary from mild to serious conditions. Recently, the autonomic nervous system has become an important focus in understanding how arrhythmias develop. Cardiac electrophysiology is regulated by both parasympathetic and sympathetic nervous systems. If the balance is disrupted, abnormal heart rhythms can develop. This thesis aims to investigate how the autonomic nervous system influences the development of cardiac arrhythmias. This thesis is based on a narrative literature review; relevant literature was collected through searches in PubMed and Google Scholar databases using keywords related to cardiac and autonomic function. The findings suggested that elevated sympathetic activity is associated with ventricular arrhythmias primarily through enhanced cellular excitability and calcium overload. The parasympathetic nervous system is usually protective. In some cases, shortened refractory periods may promote the development of atrial fibrilation. The intrinsic cardiac nervous system is important in regulating these processes. In general, the autonomic regulation plays an important role in arrhythmogenesis. Better understanding of these mechanisms is important for improved diagnosis and management in clinical practice. Keywords: autonomic nervous system, cardiac arrhythmias, atrial fibrillation, sympathetic and parasympathetic activity. |
