Arrhythmias Specialist

What is an arrhythmia?

Arrhythmias refer to an irregular or abnormal heartbeat. They occur when the electrical impulses that control the beating of your heart aren’t working properly, resulting in a heart that beats too slow, too fast, or irregularly. 

Heart arrhythmias are common and can be due to a congenital defect or stress. While most arrhythmias are harmless, it can be an indication of a more serious underlying health condition, such as heart disease or a lack of blood flow to your heart. 

If you’re experiencing changes in your heartbeat, the team at Premier Cardiology Consultants can provide the expert care you need. 

What are the types of arrhythmias?

Arrhythmias are classified into types based on the speed of your heart rate and the area of the heart the arrhythmia originates. Types of arrhythmias include:

Bradycardia

Bradycardia is an arrhythmia in which the rhythm of your heart slows down.

Tachycardia

If your heart feels as though it’s racing, you may be experiencing tachycardia.

Supraventricular 

A supraventricular arrhythmia indicates that your irregular heartbeat is occurring in your atria.

Ventricular

A ventricular arrhythmia indicates that your irregular heartbeat is occurring in your ventricles.

Atrial fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation is one of the most serious types of arrhythmias. It’s classified by a fast heartbeat that’s caused by chaotic electrical impulses in the atria of your heart. 

Atrial fibrillation may increase your risk of developing a blood clot that blocks the blood flow to your heart or brain, resulting in a heart attack or stroke.

If you’re experiencing a change in your heartbeat or a fluttering sensation in your chest, contact Premier Cardiology Consultants for an evaluation.

How are arrhythmias treated?

Treatment for your arrhythmia may depend on the underlying cause and the severity of your irregularity. In some cases, no treatment is required at all. 

If you have bradycardia, your specialist at Premier Cardiology Consultants may suggest placement of a pacemaker to stimulate the heart to beat at a steady rate. 

The pacemaker, which is placed under your skin near your collarbone, sends out electrical impulses through your blood vessels to your heart to create the steady beat.

Other treatments for arrhythmias include:

• Medication
• Catheter ablation
• Cardioversion
• Implantable cardioverter-defibrillator

Surgery is sometimes recommended depending on the underlying cause of the arrhythmia. For arrhythmias related to heart disease, the team may suggest coronary bypass surgery or valve repair. 

For diagnosis and treatment of your arrhythmia from a team of experienced cardiologists, call Premier Cardiology Consultants or book an appointment online today.