Heart Rhythm Care
Arrhythmia Evaluation & Treatment
If your heartbeat feels too fast, too slow, or irregular, you're not alone. Our team evaluates heart rhythm problems with the latest diagnostics and personalized treatment plans, from lifestyle guidance and medications to advanced procedures.
Medical information here is educational and not a substitute for professional care. If you think you’re having a medical emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number.
What it is
An arrhythmia is a problem with the heart’s electrical system that makes the heartbeat irregular, too fast (tachycardia), or too slow (bradycardia).
Common symptoms
Palpitations, skipped beats, pounding in the chest, dizziness, shortness of breath, chest discomfort, fatigue, or fainting.
Good news
Most rhythm issues are treatable. Early evaluation helps match you with the safest, most effective plan.
Symptoms
Arrhythmia symptoms vary but often include palpitations, a racing or slow heartbeat, shortness of breath, fatigue, dizziness, or fainting. Some people may notice only mild discomfort, while others experience more disruptive or serious symptoms.
Palpitations or fluttering
Skipped or extra beats
Shortness of breath
Fainting (syncope)
Racing or slow heartbeat
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Chest discomfort or fatigue
Is It Urgent?
Call 911 or your local emergency number if an irregular heartbeat is accompanied by fainting, severe chest pain, trouble breathing, or occurs after a serious illness or injury.
If symptoms are mild or come and go, schedule an appointment—especially if you have heart disease, sleep apnea, thyroid problems, or a family history of arrhythmias.
Common Types of Arrhythmia
Arrhythmias can be fast, slow, or irregular heart rhythms. Common types include atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, supraventricular tachycardia (SVT), and bradycardia. Each affects the heart differently and may cause symptoms like palpitations, fatigue, or dizziness
Atrial Flutter
Very fast, irregular rhythm in the upper chambers. Can cause palpitations, fatigue, or shortness of breath and increases stroke risk. Management includes rate/rhythm control and stroke prevention.
Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT)
Sudden, recurrent episodes of a very fast heartbeat that begin above the ventricles. This condition often responds to vagal maneuvers, medications, or can be cured with ablation.
Premature Beats (PACs / PVCs)
Early beats that feel like a skipped beat or a thud. Usually benign but can be bothersome or frequent; evaluation checks for underlying causes.
Premature Beats (PACs / PVCs)
Early beats that feel like a skipped beat or a thud. Usually benign but can be bothersome or frequent; evaluation checks for underlying causes.
Ventricular Tachycardia (VT)
Fast rhythm from the lower chambers. May be dangerous—especially with structural heart disease—and needs urgent assessment.
Bradycardia & Heart Block
Slow heart rhythms caused by problems in the sinus node or AV node. These rhythms may lead to fatigue, dizziness, or fainting, some patients benefit from a pacemaker.
Causes & Risk Factors
Slow heart rhythms caused by problems in the sinus node or AV node. These rhythms may lead to fatigue, dizziness, or fainting, some patients benefit from a pacemaker.
High blood pressure, coronary artery disease, or heart failure
Valve disease or prior heart surgery
Sleep apnea or lung disease
Thyroid imbalance, electrolyte shifts, fever, dehydration
Stimulants (caffeine, energy drinks), alcohol, nicotine
Stress, illness, or certain medications
Genetics or family history of arrhythmia
Diabetes or obesity
Inflammation of the heart (myocarditis)
Aging—risk rises over time
Competitive endurance training (in some cases)
No identifiable cause (idiopathic) in some people
How We Diagnose
Diagnosing arrhythmias begins with a detailed medical history and physical exam. Tests may include an electrocardiogram (ECG), Holter monitor, event monitor, or other advanced heart rhythm studies to pinpoint the type and cause of the irregular heartbeat.
ECG & Wearables
In‑clinic ECG and home monitors (Holter, event, or patch) capture your heart rhythm during daily activities.
Imaging
An echocardiogram, and when needed, a cardiac CT or MRI, are used to evaluate heart structure, function, and potential underlying causes.
Stress & Labs
Exercise testing and bloodwork (inc. thyroid and electrolytes) identify triggers and related conditions.
Electrophysiology Study
A minimally invasive test that maps electrical pathways when precise diagnosis or ablation is planned.
Personalized Treatment Options
Your plan is tailored to your symptoms, type of arrhythmia, and overall health. We focus on safety, relief, and long‑term heart protection.
Lifestyle & Prevention
Sleep, hydration, limiting alcohol and stimulants, managing blood pressure, treating sleep apnea, and stress reduction.
Medications
Rate and rhythm control, symptom relief, and blood thinners when stroke risk is elevated (e.g., AFib).
Cardioversion
A brief, carefully controlled electrical shock can restore a normal heart rhythm for certain types of arrhythmias.
Catheter Ablation
Targets and treats the tiny heart tissue causing abnormal signals—often curative for SVT and helpful in AFib or flutter.
Pacemakers
Small devices that prevent slow heart rates and improve symptoms in bradycardia or heart block.
ICDs
Implantable cardioverter‑defibrillators protect against life‑threatening ventricular rhythms for high‑risk patients.
Practical Tips for a Healthy, Active Heart
Living Well With a Heart Rhythm Condition
Keep a symptom diary, know your triggers, and bring wearable or home BP/HR data to visits. Follow your medicine plan and never stop blood thinners without guidance.
Ask about vaccinations, screenings, sleep health, and exercise. Many patients safely return to the activities they love with the right plan.
Healthy Eating
Follow a balanced diet like DASH or Mediterranean-style
Active Lifestyle
Get regular, moderate exercise as recommended.
Avoid Harmful Substances
Limit alcohol and avoid tobacco or vaping.
Heart Health Management
Control blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, and sleep
FAQ
Common Questions About Arrhythmia
Many people wonder what causes arrhythmias, how they’re diagnosed, and which treatments are most effective. Understanding the basics can help you recognize symptoms early and make informed care decisions.
Can stress cause arrhythmias?
Stress and poor sleep can trigger palpitations or worsen existing rhythm issues in some people. Managing stress is often part of treatment.
Will I need blood thinners?
Only certain conditions—like atrial fibrillation with elevated stroke risk—require anticoagulation. We use validated risk scores to guide this decision with you.
Is caffeine safe?
Small amounts may be fine for many adults, but sensitivity varies. If you notice a link between caffeine and symptoms, reduce or avoid it.
Can arrhythmias be cured?
Some can be cured (for example, many SVTs after ablation). Others are managed long‑term to control symptoms and reduce complications.
Book Your Next Appointment
Take the First Step Toward a Healthier Heart
Booking your appointment is quick and easy—our expert team is ready to help you take control of your heart health.
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