Heart Rhythm Disorders
Electrophysiologists see patients who have heart rhythm disorders (also called "arrhythmias"). When you see an electrophysiologist with arrhythmia symptoms or risk factors, the doctor may use an electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG) or a Holter monitor to record your heart's electrical activity. This initial step may lead to a diagnosis and treatment plan, which can be customized for your particular arrhythmia and treatment needs.
What is an Arrhythmia?
A heart rhythm disorder is characterized by abnormal heartbeats. Your heart may beat rapidly, slowly or in an uneven rhythm. While many arrhythmias do not pose a serious health threat, others do require treatment. When treatment is needed, Merit Health Wesley has a specialist who can help.
Your Treatment Options
Depending on the type and severity of the heart rhythm disorder, you may have a range of treatment options to choose from. Electrophysiologists provide arrhythmia treatment, from helping you modify your lifestyle to providing surgical treatment. Services may include:
- Lifestyle modification and medical management - Stress, caffeine, alcohol and other substances can contribute to heart rhythm disorders. Electrophysiologists at Merit Health Wesley provide education and resources that can help you adopt better lifestyle habits that may improve the arrhythmia. If lifestyle changes are not enough to bring about a change, then your specialist may integrate medications into your treatment plan.
- Cardioversion - Fast arrhythmias are sometimes treated with an electrical shock to the heart; this may be done with an ECG monitor and a defibrillator.
- Catheter ablation – A catheter (small wire) can be fitted with a tiny electrode, which is introduced to the heart via a blood vessel in the leg; the catheter burns the abnormal heart cells responsible for the arrhythmia.
- Implantable devices - Placed just beneath the skin, these small devices send electrical signals to the heart to regulate heartbeat. A pacemaker may be used to regulate a slow heartbeat, while an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) may be used to regulate a fast heartbeat (defibrillation).
How Do I Know If I Have an Arrhythmia?
Only a physician can diagnose a heart rhythm disorder. However, general causes and risk factors may include:
- Having had a heart attack
- Scarring of the heart from a prior heart attack
- Changes to the heart's structure
- Blocked arteries
- High blood pressure
- Hyperthyroidism
- Hypothyroidism
- Smoking
- Drinking too much alcohol or caffeine
- Drug abuse
- Stress
- Certain medications or over-the-counter supplements
- Diabetes
- Sleep apnea
- Genetics