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Arrhythmia is an abnormality in the heart's rhythm, or heartbeat pattern. The heartbeat can be too slow, too fast, have extra beats, skip a beat, or otherwise beat irregularly.In many cases, the cause of an arrhythmia is unknown. Known causes of arrhythmias include heart disease, stress, caffeine, tobacco, alcohol, diet pills, and decongestants in cough and cold medicines.Symptoms of an arrhythmia include a fast heartbeat, pounding or fluttering chest sensations, skipping a heartbeat, "flip-flops," dizziness, faintness, shortness of breath, and chest pains.If you've received a diagnosis of arrhythmia, treatment may or may not be necessary. Usually, it's required only if the arrhythmia is causing significant symptoms or if it's putting you at risk of a more serious arrhythmia or arrhythmia complication.Many arrhythmias can be blamed on underlying heart disease, so your doctor may advise that, in addition to other treatments, you make lifestyle changes that will keep your heart as healthy as possible.For instance, he or she may advise that you: * Eat heart-healthy foods * Increase your physical activity * Quit smoking * Cut back on caffeine and alcohol * Find ways to reduce the amount of stress in your life * Avoid stimulant medications, such as medications found in over-the-counter treatments for colds and nasal congestion-