Heart rhythm disorders

What is arrhythmia?

Heart rhythm disorders, also known as arrhythmia or dysrhythmia, is a problem with the rate or rhythm of the heartbeat. During an arrhythmia, the heart can beat too fast, too slowly, or with an irregular rhythm. While it can be harmless, some types can be serious or life-threatening.

The most common arrhythmia is Atrial fibrillation (AFib), an irregular and often rapid heart rate originating in the atria. 

Other common types include: 

• Ventricular tachycardia (VT): When the heart beats too fast and originates in the ventricles, which can be dangerous. 
• Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT): Another type of a rapid heart rate originating above the ventricles.
• Bradycardia: When the heart beats too slowly. 
• Premature ventricular contractions (PVCs): Extra, abnormal heartbeats originating in the ventricles. 

Arrhythmia is caused by changes in heart tissue and activity or in the electrical signals that control your heartbeat. These changes can be caused by hypertension, coronary artery disease, heart failure, genetics or a response to the aging process. Often there are no symptoms, but some people feel an irregular heartbeat. You may feel faint or dizzy or have difficulty breathing.
 

How is arrhythmia diagnosed?

Electrophysiology (EP) specializes in heart rhythm disorders. Although there is no guaranteed way to prevent or minimize the development of AFib, early detection and proper treatment can help patients manage the condition. 

The most common test used to diagnose an arrhythmia is an electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG). Your doctor will run other tests as needed. She or he may recommend medicines, placement of a device that can correct an irregular heartbeat, or surgery to repair nerves that are overstimulating the heart. If arrhythmia is left untreated, the heart may not be able to pump enough blood to the body. This can damage the heart, the brain, or other organs.

An arrhythmia may not cause any obvious signs or symptoms.That’s why regular checkups with your primary care provider are essential. Sometimes even the smallest change in your health can be a sign of something more serious. You may notice something that occurs only occasionally, or your symptoms may become more frequent over time. Keep track of when and how often arrhythmia occurs, what you feel, and whether these things change over time. They are all important clues your doctor can use. If left untreated, arrhythmia can lead to life-threatening complications such as stroke, heart failure, or sudden cardiac arrest.

You may be able to feel a slow or irregular heartbeat or notice pauses between heartbeats. If you have palpitations, you may feel like your heart skipped a beat or may notice it pounding or racing. These are all symptoms of arrhythmia.

More serious signs and symptoms may include:

• Anxiety
• Blurred vision
• Chest pain
• Difficulty breathing
• Fainting or nearly fainting
• Foggy thinking
• Fatigue
• Sweating
• Weakness, dizziness, and light-headedness

To diagnose arrhythmia, your doctor will ask you about your symptoms, your medical history, and any signs of arrhythmia in your family. Your doctor may also do an EKG and a physical exam as part of your diagnosis. Additional tests may be necessary to rule out another cause or to help your doctor decide on treatment.
 

Treatment options for arrhythmia and AFib

If you have been diagnosed and treated for arrhythmia, make sure to follow your treatment plan. Your ongoing care may focus on reducing the chance that you will have another episode or a complication. Keep your regular appointments with your doctor. Ask about heart-healthy lifestyle changes that you can make to keep your arrhythmia from happening again or getting worse.

The most common treatments range from daily medications to corrective procedures such as catheter ablations, cardioversion, pacemakers and implants such as WATCHMAN which helps reduce AFib stroke risk. 

Arrhythmias like AFib sometimes comes unannounced. Watch for a fluttering or racing heartbeat, unusual fatigue, shortness of breath, dizziness or chest discomfort. Some people experience it all, others feel nothing until a complication shows up. If something feels off, schedule an appointment with the Prevea Heart Care team for peace of mind. There is no time like the present to listen to your heart.