An arrhythmia is a disorder of the heartbeat that affects the rate or rhythm. An arrhythmia occurs when electrical impulses, which regulate heartbeats, is not functioning properly. This causes the heart to beat too fast (tachycardia), too slow (bradycardia), too early (premature contraction), irregular, or too erratically rapid (fibrillation).
The heart’s normal rhythm is between 60 and 100 beats per minute (bpm).
There are many types of arrhythmia. Most arrhythmias are harmless, but some are not. Even serious arrhythmias often can be successfully treated. Most people who have arrhythmias are able to live normal, healthy lives.
What are the symptoms of an arrhythmia and
atrial fibrillation
?
An arrhythmia may be “silent” and not cause any symptoms. A doctor can detect an irregular heartbeat during an examination by taking your pulse, listening to your heart or by performing diagnostic tests. If symptoms occur, they may include:
Palpitations: A feeling of skipped heartbeats, fluttering, "flip-flops" or feeling that the heart is "running away"
Pounding in the chest
Dizziness or feeling lightheaded
Shortness of breath
Chest discomfort
Weakness or fatigue (feeling very tired
Electrocardiogram
Holter monitor, or event monitor
Stress test
Echocardiogram
Electrophysiology study (EPS)
Head-up tilt table test
How are arrhythmias treated at Bangkok Heart Hospital?
Treatment depends on the type and severity of your arrhythmia. In some cases, no treatment is necessary. Treatment options include medications, lifestyle changes and undergoing specific prcedures.
Lifestyle changes
Medication
Electrical Cardioversion
Pacemaker
Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator (ICD)
Catheler Ablation
Surgery