Palpitations, feeling dizzy, fainting or being short of breath may be symptoms of heart rhythm problems.  You may need questions such as ‘what are heart rhythm abnormalities?’ and ‘what are the symptoms?’.  This guide will answer some of those questions.

What are Heart Rhythm Abnormalities?

An arrhythmia is a medical term for an abnormal heart rhythm.

According to the NHS, arrhythmias or heart-rhythm problems are experienced by more than 2 million people a year in the UK.  Most people with an abnormal heart rhythm can lead a normal life if it is properly diagnosed.

The main types of arrhythmia are detailed below.

  • Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common type, where the heart beats irregularly and faster than normal
  • Supraventricular tachycardia is an episode of abnormally fast heart rate at rest
  • Bradycardia is when the heart beats more slowly than normal
  • Heart block occurs when the heart beats more slowly than normal and can cause people to collapse
  • Ventricular fibrillation – a rare, rapid and disorganised rhythm of heartbeats that rapidly leads to loss of consciousness and sudden death if not treated immediately

Getting help for heart rhythm abnormalities

Dr David Begley is a Consultant Cardiologist in the UK who specialises in cardiac rhythm management.  This is the investigation and treatment of heart rhythm abnormalities or arrhythmias.  He will aim to answer all your concerns about what are heart rhythm abnormalities.

If you have experienced symptoms such as blackouts, dizziness, palpitations or feeling short of breath it is advisable to seek help from a medical professional.  You can also find more information about the symptoms of heart rhythm abnormalities on our website.

He can also provide treatment for heart rhythm abnormalities.  Options will range from management with medicines, catheter ablation or insertion of a cardiovascular implantable electronic device such as a pacemaker or cardioverter-defibrillator.

Contact Dr Begley

To make an appointment to discuss your questions about what are heart rhythm abnormalities and the treatment, please contact us.  Dr David Begley’s Personal Assistant, Lynn Thomas is contactable via phone on 01223 850 423 or email.