An arrhythmia is a change from the normal rate or rhythm of the heartbeat. The change can be too fast of a heartbeat, too slow of a heartbeat or a heartbeat with an irregular rhythm. They can be harmless to life-threatening.
Types of Arrhythmia
There are different types of arrhythmias with with some being more threatening than others. Conditions include:
- Atrial fibrillation (A-fib) - A type of supraventricular arrhythmia, Afib is characterized by a racing heartbeat (also known as Tachycardia). A-fib is fairly common and increases a person's chance of heart-related deaths and stroke.
- Bradyarrhythmia or bradycardia - An unusually slow heart beat and is most worrisome in elderly people.
- Premature or extra heartbeat - An early heartbeat, as if your heart skipped a beat.
- Ventricular fibrillation (V-fib) - Disorganized signals that prohibit the heart from pumping blood normally. This arrhythmia is the most serious and can lead to cardiac arrest within a few minutes.
Arrhythmia Diagnosis and Treatment
Your primary care provider or cardiologists may order different tests to help diagnose an arrhythmia. Common procedures include an electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG), electrophysiology study (EP) or stress testing.
Treatment depends on the type of arrhythmia diagnosed and may include lifestyle changes, medication, device implantation and other surgeries.
Scheduling an Appointment
Cardiology services are available at many locations including Tulsa and Muskogee. To find a cardiology location or specialist near you, search our online directories or call Saint Francis HealthLink at 918-488-6688.