The human heart beats over 100,000 times a day and follows a carefully regulated electrical pattern that keeps blood flowing efficiently throughout the body. But sometimes, this electrical rhythm can go off course, leading to a condition known as arrhythmia. It is also commonly known as an irregular heartbeat. In some cases, these irregular heartbeats can be harmless, but they can be life-threatening as well. In this blog, we will understand what arrhythmias are along with their treatment options and insights from the best cardiac surgeon in Delhi. Continue reading for further information.

What Is an Arrhythmia?

An arrhythmia is a condition that occurs when the electrical impulses that coordinate heartbeats do not function properly. This causes the heart to beat too fast, too slow, or irregularly.

Types of Arrhythmias

• Tachycardia: A heart rate that’s too fast (typically over 100 beats per minute).

• Bradycardia: A heart rate that’s too slow (under 60 beats per minute).

• Irregular Rhythm: Heartbeat patterns that are chaotic or inconsistent.

Common Types of Arrhythmias

Below mentioned are the common types of arrhythmias:

• Atrial Fibrillation (AFib)

• Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT)

• Ventricular Tachycardia (VT)

• Ventricular Fibrillation (VF)

• Bradyarrhythmias

Treatment Options for Arrhythmias

Here are some of the treatment options for arrhythmias:

Lifestyle Modifications:

• Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and stimulants

• Quit smoking

• Manage stress through relaxation techniques

• Maintain a heart-healthy diet

• Exercise regularly (as recommended by your doctor)

Medications:

Examples of drugs that can help manage arrhythmias are mentioned below:

• Antiarrhythmic drugs: Examples include amiodarone and flecainide. They work by restoring or maintaining normal rhythm.

• Beta-blockers: Example includes metoprolol. They work by slowing the heart rate and reducing symptoms.

• Calcium channel blockers: Example includes diltiazem. They work by controlling heart rate and rhythm.

• Anticoagulants: Examples include warfarin and apixaban. They work by preventing blood clots, especially in AFib patients.

Cardioversion:

It is a procedure that uses electrical shock or medications to reset the heart’s rhythm. The procedure is often used for atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter.

Catheter Ablation:

This is a minimally invasive procedure where abnormal electrical pathways are destroyed using radiofrequency energy or cryotherapy. It is highly effective for many types of SVT, atrial flutter, and some forms of AFib.

Implantable Devices:

Examples include:

• Pacemaker: A small device implanted under the skin to regulate slow heart rhythms. It sends electrical impulses to prompt the heart to beat at a normal rate.

• Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD): Used for patients at risk of life-threatening arrhythmias like VT or VF. It detects abnormal rhythms and delivers a shock to restore normal rhythm.

• Cardiac Resynchronisation Therapy (CRT): Used for heart failure patients with arrhythmias. It works by coordinating the contractions of the heart’s ventricles to improve efficiency.

Surgical Options:

These involve the surgical creation of scar tissue to block abnormal signals (used in severe AFib cases). This is typically done during open-heart surgery or in conjunction with other procedures.

Consult with Dr. Sujay Shad at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi!

Arrhythmias are common and often manageable with proper care. Whether your condition is benign or potentially serious, understanding your diagnosis and treatment options can make a significant difference. With advances in technology and medicine, there are now more effective treatments than ever to restore normal heart rhythm and enhance quality of life. If you suspect an irregular heartbeat or are experiencing symptoms, don't ignore them. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and even save lives. For more information, book an appointment with Dr. Sujay Shad at the best hospital for heart surgery in Delhi, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi!