The heart is a fascinating organ, with a natural electrical system that orchestrates its rhythm. When this system malfunctions, it can cause the heart to beat too fast, too slow, or irregularly. These abnormal heart rhythms are known as arrhythmias. Understanding arrhythmias is important for your heart health. While some arrhythmias are harmless, others can be symptoms of a serious underlying condition. Understanding them and knowing when to seek specialist advice is crucial for your heart health.
What are arrhythmias?
An arrhythmia is an abnormality in the heart’s rhythm. It can be caused by a variety of factors, from a problem with the electrical signals that control the heartbeat to an underlying heart condition. Symptoms vary widely and can include a fluttering or racing sensation in the chest, feelings of fatigue, breathlessness, light-headedness, or even blackouts (syncope). Some common types of arrhythmias include:
- Premature ventricular contractions (PVCs): Extra, abnormal heartbeats that disrupt the regular rhythm.
- Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT): A rapid heartbeat originating above the heart’s lower chambers.
- Atrial fibrillation (AF): A rapid, irregular heartbeat that can increase the risk of stroke.
- Ventricular tachycardia (VT): A fast, abnormal heart rhythm that starts in the lower chambers of the heart.
- Heart block: A condition where the electrical signals that tell the heart to beat are partially or fully blocked.
When should you see a specialist?
While some people live with benign arrhythmias without problems, a consultation with a specialist is essential if you experience persistent or worrying symptoms. You should seek specialist advice if you experience:
- Frequent palpitations
- Fatigue
- Breathlessness
- Light-headedness
A sudden blackout should always be evaluated by a cardiologist. Your specialist will aim to quickly identify the cause of these worrying symptoms and provide reassurance or offer appropriate, guided treatment.
The assessment for an arrhythmia often begins with a simple electrocardiogram (ECG). Other investigations such as ambulatory ECG monitoring or an echocardiogram are also possible. These tests help to pinpoint the cause of your symptoms, which may be due to a variety of different rhythm disturbances.
Dr David Begley’s expertise in cardiac rhythm management
Dr David Begley is a consultant cardiologist and expert in cardiac rhythm management. He is a consultant in cardiology at Papworth Hospital.
Dr Begley’s expertise is built on extensive experience. He has personally performed thousands of ablation procedures and cardiac device implants. His special clinical interests include the ablation of complex arrhythmias, device implantation, and managing conditions such as atrial fibrillation, supraventricular tachycardia, and ventricular tachycardia.
Once the cause of an arrhythmia has been identified, a variety of treatment options are available. These can range from management with medicines to the implantation of a cardiac device or catheter ablation. Dr Begley is known for his professional and friendly manner, ensuring patients feel free to ask questions and understand all aspects of their condition.
Understanding arrhythmias and getting treatment
If you are experiencing symptoms, you might think are related to a heart rhythm disturbance, get medical attention as soon as you can. For more information or to arrange an appointment with Dr Begley, you can contact his personal assistant.