Arrhythmia Q & A

What is arrhythmia?

Arrhythmias occur when your heartbeat is too fast, too slow, or irregular. One type of arrhythmia, atrial fibrillation, causes a rapid and irregular heartbeat. 

Your heart normally keeps a regular heart rate using a built-in pacemaker. The heart's pacemaker is a small cluster of cells that send out the electrical signals that trigger each new heartbeat. 

Any problem that interferes with the heart's electrical system can cause an arrhythmia, including:

  • Coronary artery disease (reduced blood flow to the heart)
  • Cardiomyopathy (heart muscle disease)
  • Damage to the heart's electrical system
  • Chronic stress
  • Strong emotions (e.g., anger, pain, anxiety)
  • Electrolyte imbalances
  • Thyroid disease
  • Dehydration
  • Low blood sugar

 

Sleep apnea may also cause an abnormal heartbeat.

What are the symptoms of heart arrhythmia?

You may not notice signs of an arrhythmia, or they could come and go. When symptoms appear, you may have:

  • Palpitations (sensations that your heart is pounding, racing, skipping a beat, or fluttering)
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Chest pain or pressure
  • Blurry vision
  • Fatigue
  • Anxiety

 

Depending on the severity of the arrhythmia, you could also feel dizzy or lightheaded. 

How is an arrhythmia diagnosed?

 

Your provider begins by evaluating your medical history and symptoms. Then they run diagnostic tests to evaluate the electrical activity and blood flow in your heart.

 

You may need tests such as:

 

  • Electrocardiogram
  • Echocardiography
  • Electrophysiology studies
  • Holter or event monitor
  • Cardiac catheterization
  • Cardiac stress test

 

A stress test shows how well your heart pumps blood when it's forced to work harder than normal.

 

How is an arrhythmia treated?

 

Your treatment plan depends on the severity of your symptoms and the cause of your arrhythmia. You may need blood thinners together with anticoagulant management or medications that help regulate your heartbeat.

 

Many people also need to make lifestyle changes. You can significantly reduce the strain on your heart by following a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, losing weight, and stopping smoking.

 

Advanced Heart Care Associates may recommend a procedure such as: 

Catheter ablation

After your provider guides a catheter through the blood vessels and into your heart, they use radiofrequency energy to destroy the tiny area of your heart that triggers the arrhythmia. 

Device implantation

Your provider may implant a device that monitors your heartbeat and sends an electrical impulse when needed to stop the arrhythmia and restore a regular beat. Advanced Heart Care Associates often recommends a pacemaker or implantable cardioverter-defibrillator.

 

When you need expert care for arrhythmia, don't wait to schedule an appointment. Call Advanced Heart Care Associates or book an appointment online today.