Risk Factors

A number of factors may increase your risk of developing an arrhythmia, some of which you can control, and some of which you can't:

Age
Genetics (being born with a heart abnormality)
Heart disease
Smoking
High blood pressure
Obesity
Diabetes
Sleep apnea
Some over-the-counter drugs, such as cold medicines containing pseudoephedrine
Certain prescription drugs, including amphetamines
Excessive use of alcohol
Overconsumption of caffeine, found in coffee, tea, colas and other soft drinks. Caffeine is also found in guarana, frequently an ingredient in energy drinks.
Use of ephedra and ephedrine, dietary supplements related to adrenaline
Use of creatine, a dietary supplement