Cardiac rhythm management (CRM) is a specialised field of cardiology. It focuses on diagnosing and treating abnormal heart rhythms, also known as arrhythmias. The heart’s electrical signals control its pumping function. When these signals are disrupted, it can lead to a variety of symptoms and health complications.
Understanding Cardiac Rhythm Management
The heart’s electrical system ensures each muscle cell plays its part in a coordinated rhythm. When this rhythm experiences disruption, it can cause the heart to beat too fast, too slow, or irregularly. This can lead to symptoms such as palpitations, dizziness, shortness of breath, and even fainting.
Cardiac rhythm management aims to restore and maintain a normal heart rhythm. It uses medical interventions, including medications, devices, and minimally invasive procedures.
Common Types of Arrhythmias
There are many different types of arrhythmias, each with its own set of causes and symptoms. Some of the most common types include:
- Atrial fibrillation: This is the most common type of arrhythmia, characterised by rapid and irregular electrical signals in the upper chambers of the heart (atria).
- Atrial flutter: This is another type of arrhythmia that affects the atria, causing them to beat in a regular but very fast rhythm.
- Ventricular tachycardia: This is a serious type of arrhythmia that occurs when the lower chambers of the heart (ventricles) beat too quickly and irregularly.
- Ventricular fibrillation: This is a life-threatening arrhythmia in which the ventricles quiver instead of pumping blood effectively.
Cardiac Rhythm Management Procedures
Specialists use a range of procedures to diagnose and treat arrhythmias. These procedures may include:
- Electrocardiogram (ECG): This is a simple test that records the electrical activity of the heart using electrodes placed on the chest and limbs. It can help to identify abnormalities in the heart rhythm.
- Holter monitor: This is a portable device that records the heart’s electrical activity over 24 hours or more. It can detect occasional arrhythmias.
- Event recorder: This is a smaller device that records the heart’s electrical activity only when certain symptoms occur, such as palpitations or dizziness.
- Implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD): This is a small, battery-powered device that is implanted under the skin to monitor the heart rhythm and deliver an electrical shock if it detects a life-threatening arrhythmia.
- Pacemaker: This is a small device that is implanted under the skin to help regulate the heart rhythm when it beats too slowly or irregularly.
- Catheter ablation: This is a minimally invasive procedure that uses radiofrequency energy to destroy tiny areas of tissue in the heart that are causing abnormal electrical signals.
Dr Begley’s Cardiac Rhythm Management Expertise
Dr Begley is a consultant cardiologist with a special interest in cardiac rhythm management. He has extensive experience in diagnosing and treating a wide range of arrhythmias using the latest techniques and technologies.
He provides his patients with the highest quality care and support. Patients can fully share their concerns and in turn, Dr Begley will explain their treatment options in detail. He also works closely with other healthcare professionals to ensure that his patients receive a comprehensive and coordinated care plan.
Cardiac rhythm management is a vital area of cardiology that is constantly evolving. With the help of experienced cardiologists like Dr Begley, people with arrhythmias can get the treatment they need to live full and healthy lives.
If you are experiencing symptoms of an arrhythmia, please see a cardiologist for diagnosis and treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment can help to prevent serious complications.