Arrhythmia Orlando & Winter Park, FL

Arrhythmia refers to an irregular heart rhythm, where the heart may beat too quickly, too slowly, or irregularly. While some arrhythmias are harmless, others can be life-threatening.

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Treatment Approaches

It is vital for patients to understand the different types of arrhythmias, their symptoms, causes, treatments, recovery times, and preventive measures that they can take to protect themselves. Heartwell Cardiology in Orlando can help you by providing comprehensive care and expert guidance tailored to your specific needs.

The different types of Arrhythmia

There are several types of arrhythmias, including:

Atrial Fibrillation (AFib): The most common type, AFib causes irregular or sped up beating of the atria (upper chambers of the heart).
Atrial Flutter: Similar to AFib, but with a more regular rhythm in the atria.
Bradycardia: A slow heart rate, typically under 60 beats per minute.
Tachycardia: A rapid heart rate, often exceeding 100 beats per minute.
Ventricular Fibrillation: A life-threatening arrhythmia that causes the lower chambers (ventricles) to quiver rather than contract properly.

Symptoms

Arrhythmias can produce a wide range of symptoms, including:

Palpitations (feeling of a racing, fluttering, or irregular heartbeat)
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Fainting (syncope)
Chest pain or discomfort
Shortness of breath
Fatigue
Rapid or irregular pulse
Weakness
Sweating

Causes

Arrhythmias can result from various factors, including:

Heart Conditions: Conditions such as coronary artery disease, heart attack, heart failure, and congenital heart defects
High Blood Pressure: Hypertension puts strain on the heart
Aging: Arrhythmia risk increases with age
Medications and stimulants: Certain medications, illegal drugs, and high caffeine or alcohol consumption can trigger arrhythmias
Electrolyte imbalances: An imbalance in potassium, calcium, or magnesium levels can affect the heart's electrical signals.
Other medical conditions: Conditions like diabetes, sleep apnea, and thyroid disorders can contribute to arrhythmias

Diagnosis

To diagnose arrhythmia, doctors may perform various tests, including:

Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG): Records the heart's electrical activity to detect irregularities
Holter Monitor: A portable device worn for 24-48 hours to continuously record heart rhythms.
Event Monitor: Similar to a Holter monitor, but used for longer periods to capture sporadic arrhythmias
Echocardiogram: Uses ultrasound to create images of the heart, helping to identify structural issues

Treatment

The treatment for arrhythmias depends on their type, severity, and underlying causes:

Medications: Anti-arrhythmic drugs help control heart rhythm and rate.
Cardioversion: An electric shock is delivered to the heart to restore a normal rhythm.
Ablation: A procedure that destroys abnormal heart tissue responsible for arrhythmias.
Pacemaker: Implanted to regulate slow heart rhythms.
Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator (ICD): Monitors heart rhythms and delivers shocks to treat life-threatening arrhythmias.
Catheter Ablation: A minimally invasive procedure that targets and eliminates abnormal electrical pathways in the heart.

Recovery time

Recovery time varies depending on the type of arrhythmia and the treatment received. Some people can resume normal activities shortly after treatment, while others may need more time to recover. It's essential to follow the doctor's recommendations for activity levels and medication.

Prevention

While some arrhythmias cannot be prevented, certain lifestyle changes and precautions can reduce the risk:

Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and maintain a healthy weight.
Manage chronic conditions: Control conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and sleep apnea through medication and lifestyle changes.
Limit stimulants: Reduce or eliminate caffeine, alcohol, and stimulant drug use.
Stay hydrated: Dehydration can contribute to arrhythmias, so make sure you stay adequately hydrated.
Manage stress: Practice relaxation techniques, mindfulness, or meditation to reduce stress levels.
Take medications as prescribed: If you have a heart condition or are on medication, take them as directed by your healthcare provider.

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Why choose Dr. Sharma?

Dr. Raghav Sharma is a highly regarded cardiologist in Orlando known for his expertise and compassionate care. With extensive experience and a commitment to patient well-being, he stands out as a trusted choice for cardiovascular health. Reach out to our office today to learn more about your treatment options for arrhythmia in Orlando and benefit from Dr. Sharma’s expert skills.