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

More on this topic

What are Arrhythmias? (VIDEO)
What Makes Your Heart Beat?
Blood's Pathway
The Electric Heart
Symptoms of Arrhythmia
Heart Disease & Arrhythmia
Risk Factors
Testing & Diagnosis
Resetting the Heart's Rhythm
A Heart Healthy Lifestyle

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