Conditions

Arrythmias

Interpreting an electrocardiogram (ECG) helps detect heart rhythm abnormalities

When Your Heart Skips a Beat

Imagine your heart as the conductor of an orchestra—guiding your body’s rhythm with each beat. But what happens when that rhythm falls out of sync? For many, this disruption is known as an arrhythmia, a condition that can range from harmless to life-threatening.

What Is an Arrhythmia?

An arrhythmia is a disturbance in the heart’s rhythm—when it beats too quickly (tachycardia), too slowly (bradycardia), or erratically. These rhythm abnormalities can interfere with the heart’s ability to pump blood effectively, depriving the brain, lungs, and body of vital oxygen.

Sometimes, people feel a skipped beat or a sudden flutter. Other times, the symptoms are silent until something serious occurs. That’s why early detection is key.

Common Types of Arrhythmias

Each type of arrhythmia affects the heart differently. Some are benign, while others may be warning signs of more serious heart conditions:

• Atrial Fibrillation (AFib): The most common type, AFib causes the upper chambers of the heart to quiver instead of beating effectively. Left untreated, it increases your risk of stroke and heart failure.
• Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT): A rapid heartbeat starting in the upper chambers due to faulty electrical circuits.
• Premature Contractions: Early beats from either the atria or ventricles. While often harmless, they can sometimes trigger more dangerous rhythms.
• Ventricular Tachycardia: A fast rhythm from the heart’s lower chambers, potentially life-threatening if sustained.
• Ventricular Fibrillation: A chaotic, disorganized rhythm that causes the heart to stop pumping—this is a medical emergency that can lead to sudden cardiac death.

What Causes an Arrhythmia?

Your heart normally beats 60 to 100 times a minute, powered by electrical impulses that travel in a coordinated pattern. Arrhythmias occur when these impulses become disorganized due to:

• High blood pressure
• Coronary artery disease
• Structural heart changes
• Congenital heart conditions
• Stress, stimulants, or certain medications
• Sleep apnea or thyroid disorders

In many cases, arrhythmias develop silently—without clear warning signs.

Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

While some arrhythmias go unnoticed, others come with symptoms that should prompt immediate evaluation:

• Heart palpitations or fluttering
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain or tightness
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Fainting or near-fainting episodes
• Sudden fatigue or weakness

If you notice these signs, especially if they’re new or worsening, consult a cardiologist promptly.

How We Diagnose Arrhythmias

At our clinic, we use advanced, non-invasive and minimally invasive tools to uncover the rhythm behind your symptoms:

• Holter Monitor: A wearable ECG device that records your heart’s electrical activity over 24–48 hours.
• Tilt Table Test: Assesses how your heart rate and blood pressure respond to changes in posture—especially useful for unexplained fainting.
• Electrophysiology Study (EPS): A specialized, catheter-based procedure to pinpoint the exact origin of abnormal rhythms, guiding treatment decisions like ablation.

Treatment Options: Personalized to Your Needs

Treatment depends on the type and severity of the arrhythmia—but rest assured, many options are available:

• Lifestyle changes: Reducing alcohol and caffeine, managing stress, improving sleep, and quitting smoking.
• Medications: Antiarrhythmics, beta-blockers, or anticoagulants for stroke prevention in AFib.
• Ablation therapy: A minimally invasive procedure that uses heat or cold to neutralize the faulty electrical pathway.
• Implantable devices: Pacemakers or defibrillators for those with slow heartbeats or risk of sudden cardiac arrest.

Why Early Intervention Matters

Many people dismiss palpitations or fatigue as stress—but an undiagnosed arrhythmia can silently increase the risk of stroke, heart failure, or even sudden death.

As a heart rhythm specialist, I believe in proactive care. My goal is not just to treat the rhythm but to understand the why—looking deeper into your cardiovascular health and guiding you toward long-term wellness.

Take the Next Step for Your Heart Health

If you’ve experienced symptoms or have concerns about your heart rhythm, don’t wait. Book a consultation to explore a tailored, evidence-based plan that puts your health first.