Arrhythmia

What is an Arrhythmia?

An arrhythmia, or dysrhythmia, is a term that refers to any disorder that causes an irregular heartbeat, or heart rhythm. This may refer to a number of rhythm problems, including:

• Bradycardia, or slow heartbeat
• Tachycardia, or fast heartbeat
• Atrial fibrillation, or atrial flutter
• Ventricular fibrillation
• Premature ventricular contraction, or extra beats

Arrhythmias are caused by an interruption in the electrical pathways of the heart’s conduction system. The pumping action of the heart and its undisturbed flow of blood is dependent on the regular electrical impulses embedded in the heart muscle. When this electrical rhythm is interrupted, blood flow and the body’s circulation may be compromised.

What Causes Arrhythmias?

Arrhythmias are caused by strain or damage to the heart tissue, or an interruption of the electrical impulses of the heart muscle. This can be caused by:

• Age
• Chest trauma
• Heart attack
• Heart disease
• Heart surgery
• Coronary artery disease
• Medications
• Stressful lifestyle
• Viral infections
• Metabolic disorders
• Electrolyte imbalances
• Hormonal imbalances

The underlying cause of your arrhythmia may be difficult to pinpoint. An electrophysiologist, or expert in electric conduction of the body, may be necessary to identify where in the heart your arrhythmia is originating, using specialized diagnostic testing.

What are Symptoms of Arrhythmias?

You may not have any symptoms of an arrhythmia, or you may not associate your symptoms with your heart rhythm. If you have symptoms, you may notice:

• Heart palpitations
• Dizziness, fainting, or lightheadedness
• Sweating
• Shortness of breath
• Racing or pounding heartbeat
• General weakness or fatigue
• Chest pain

It’s important to have your heart rhythm checked if you have symptoms of an irregular heartbeat.

What are Possible Treatments for Arrhythmias?

Initially, your provider takes a detailed health history and performs a complete physical assessment. They may also conduct an EKG, echocardiogram, blood studies, or electrophysiology studies.

In some cases, your provider suggests that they simply monitor your arrhythmia for symptoms, or that you make lifestyle or dietary changes. In other cases, medications or invasive procedures may be required. Procedures include:

• Cardioversion or defibrillation, shocking the heart back into rhythm
• Ablation, a procedure to interrupt the electrical pathway
• Pacemaker or internal defibrillator, to help maintain a regular rhythm

The physicians at Phoenix Heart are experienced and highly qualified to diagnose, treat, and manage your arrhythmia. For a consultation regarding an irregular heartbeat, call Phoenix Heart today or book an appointment online.