What is Arrhythmias and Heart failure ?

Arrhythmias are abnormalities in the rhythm or rate of the heartbeat, causing the heart to beat too quickly (tachycardia), too slowly (bradycardia), or irregularly. These disruptions in the heart's normal electrical impulses can occur in the atria (upper chambers) or ventricles (lower chambers), leading to symptoms such as palpitations, chest pain, dizziness, fainting, or shortness of breath. Arrhythmias can range from harmless and asymptomatic to life-threatening and may result from various factors such as heart disease, electrolyte imbalances, medications, stimulants, or structural abnormalities of the heart.

Common Symptoms of Arrhythmias

Palpitations

Sensation of rapid, fluttering, or irregular heartbeat, often felt in the chest, throat, or neck.

Dizziness or Lightheadedness

Feeling faint, dizzy, or lightheaded, especially with sudden changes in position or during physical exertion.

Chest Pain or Discomfort

Pressure, tightness, or discomfort in the chest, sometimes resembling angina (heart-related chest pain).

Shortness of Breath

Difficulty breathing, particularly with exertion or during episodes of rapid heartbeat.

Fatigue

Persistent tiredness or weakness, often unrelated to physical activity or exertion.

Fainting (Syncope)

Temporary loss of consciousness, typically due to inadequate blood flow to the brain during arrhythmia episodes.

Whom to Consult?​ and When to Consult?​

If you experience symptoms suggestive of arrhythmias or have a history of heart disease or risk factors for heart rhythm disturbances, it’s essential to seek medical evaluation and management at SRM Global Hospitals, Chennai.

Schedule an appointment with emergency department Today

Consult our cardiac care expert at SRM Global Hospitals if you experience​​

Common FAQs About Arrhythmias

Q: What tests are used to diagnose arrhythmias?

A: Diagnostic tests for arrhythmias may include electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG), Holter monitor, event monitor, echocardiogram, stress test, tilt-table test, electrophysiology study (EPS), or cardiac catheterization, depending on the type and severity of the arrhythmia.

Q: Are arrhythmias dangerous?

A: While some arrhythmias may be harmless and asymptomatic, others can be life-threatening and increase the risk of complications such as stroke, heart failure, or sudden cardiac arrest. It's essential to seek medical evaluation and management to determine the type, severity, and appropriate treatment for arrhythmias.

Q: Can arrhythmias be cured?

A: The treatment for arrhythmias depends on the type, severity, and underlying cause. While some arrhythmias may require ongoing management with medications, lifestyle modifications, or procedures such as catheter ablation, others may be curable or manageable with appropriate treatment.

Q: Can lifestyle changes help prevent arrhythmias?

A: Adopting heart-healthy lifestyle habits such as regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, managing stress, avoiding excessive alcohol and caffeine consumption, quitting smoking, and managing underlying health conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes can help reduce the risk of arrhythmias and promote overall heart health.