6 Disorders That Can Affect the Rhythm of Your Heart

The human heart beats in a rhythmic and synchronized manner to ensure proper circulation of oxygenated blood throughout the body. Any disruption in this rhythm can lead to severe health issues, affecting overall well-being. Heart rhythm disorders, known as arrhythmias, can cause the heart to beat too fast, too slow, or irregularly. Seeking timely medical intervention at the Best Arrhythmia Treatment Hospital in Noida can prevent severe complications and improve heart health.
 

Book an appointment with the best cardiologists in Noida at Felix Hospital for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. Call now at +91 9667064100.

What is an Arrhythmia?

Arrhythmia refers to an abnormal heartbeat that deviates from the normal rhythm. It occurs due to electrical signal disturbances in the heart, affecting its ability to pump blood efficiently. There are various Types of Heart Arrhythmia, each with distinct causes and symptoms.

How Heart Rhythm Disorders Impact Overall Health

Heart arrhythmias can lead to severe complications such as stroke, heart failure, and sudden cardiac arrest if left untreated. The symptoms may range from mild palpitations to life-threatening conditions, necessitating prompt medical attention.

6 Disorders That Can Affect the Rhythm

1. Atrial Fibrillation (AFib)

Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is the most common type of heart arrhythmia, characterized by a rapid and irregular heartbeat. It occurs when the atria (the upper chambers of the heart) experience chaotic electrical signals, causing them to quiver instead of contracting effectively. AFib can increase the risk of stroke and heart failure if left untreated.
 

Causes of Atrial Fibrillation:
 

• High blood pressure
• Coronary artery disease
• Thyroid disorders (hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism)
• Sleep apnea
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Heart valve problems
• Previous heart surgery
• Lung diseases

Symptoms of Atrial Fibrillation:

• Irregular heartbeat or palpitations
• Fatigue and weakness
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain or discomfort
• Reduced ability to exercise

Treatment Options for Atrial Fibrillation:

• Medications: Blood thinners (to reduce stroke risk), beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and antiarrhythmic drugs
• Lifestyle modifications: Reducing caffeine and alcohol intake, managing stress, and maintaining a healthy weight
• Procedures: Electrical cardioversion, catheter ablation, and pacemaker implantation (in severe cases)

2. Ventricular Tachycardia (VT)

Ventricular tachycardia (VT) is a potentially life-threatening arrhythmia characterized by a fast and abnormal heart rhythm originating from the ventricles. This condition can impair the heart's ability to pump blood effectively, leading to sudden cardiac arrest if not managed promptly.
 

Causes of Ventricular Tachycardia:
 

• Previous heart attack (myocardial infarction)
• Cardiomyopathy (weakened heart muscle)
• Electrolyte imbalances (low potassium or magnesium levels)
• Congenital heart disease
• Use of stimulant drugs
   

Symptoms of Ventricular Tachycardia:

• Rapid heartbeat (over 100 beats per minute)
• Palpitations
• Chest pain or tightness
• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness or fainting

Treatment for Ventricular Tachycardia:

• Medications: Antiarrhythmic drugs like amiodarone or lidocaine
   
• Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD): A device that detects and corrects dangerous heart rhythms
   
• Catheter Ablation: A procedure to destroy abnormal electrical pathways causing VT
   
• Lifestyle changes: Avoiding stimulant substances and managing heart disease risk factors

3. Bradycardia

Bradycardia is an abnormally slow heart rate (fewer than 60 beats per minute). While a slow heartbeat can be normal in athletes, in some cases, it can reduce the supply of oxygenated blood to vital organs, leading to severe complications.
 

Causes of Bradycardia:
 

• Aging (natural wear and tear of the heart’s electrical system)
• Heart block (disruption of electrical signals between heart chambers)
• Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid gland)
• Sleep apnea
• Certain medications (beta-blockers and calcium channel blockers)
   

Symptoms of Bradycardia:
 

• Fatigue and lack of energy
• Dizziness or near-fainting spells
• Shortness of breath
• Confusion or memory problems
• Chest pain (in severe cases)
   

Treatment for Bradycardia:
 

• Pacemaker implantation: A small device placed under the skin to regulate heart rhythm
• Medication adjustments: Changing or stopping medications that cause slow heart rates
• Lifestyle modifications: Regular exercise, managing thyroid disorders, and treating sleep apnea

4. Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT)

Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) is a rapid heart rate originating above the ventricles. It is often triggered by external factors or congenital abnormalities and can lead to sudden episodes of fast heartbeats.
 

Common Triggers of SVT:

• High levels of stress or anxiety
• Caffeine or alcohol consumption
• Congenital heart conditions
• Smoking and drug use
   

Symptoms of Supraventricular Tachycardia:
 

• Sudden rapid heartbeat (can exceed 150-200 beats per minute)
• Sweating and trembling
• Lightheadedness or fainting
• Shortness of breath
   

Treatment for SVT:

• Vagal maneuvers: Techniques like coughing or bearing down to slow heart rate
• Medications: Beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers
• Ablation therapy: A minimally invasive procedure to remove abnormal electrical pathways

5. Long QT Syndrome (LQTS)

Long QT syndrome (LQTS) is a condition that affects the heart’s electrical system, leading to prolonged QT intervals on an ECG. This can increase the risk of severe arrhythmias and sudden cardiac arrest.
 

Causes of LQTS:

• Genetic mutations (inherited LQTS)
• Certain medications (antibiotics, antidepressants, and antihistamines)

• Electrolyte imbalances (low potassium or magnesium)

   

Symptoms of Long QT Syndrome:
 

• Sudden fainting spells
• Seizures
• Sudden cardiac arrest (in severe cases)
   

Treatment for LQTS:

• Beta-blockers: Reduce the risk of sudden cardiac events
• Lifestyle modifications: Avoiding triggers like stress and certain medications
• Implantable defibrillator: A device that corrects life-threatening arrhythmias

6. Premature Ventricular Contractions (PVCs)

Premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) are extra heartbeats that disrupt the normal rhythm. They are usually benign but can be concerning if they occur frequently.
 

Causes of PVCs:
 

• Stress and anxiety
• Excess caffeine or alcohol intake
• Smoking and nicotine use
• Underlying heart disease
   

Symptoms of PVCs:
 

• Fluttering or skipping beats
• Chest discomfort
• Dizziness or fainting
   

When to Seek Medical Attention:
 

• Frequent PVCs
• Persistent dizziness or fainting
• Symptoms not improving despite lifestyle changes

Diagnosis & Treatment of Heart Rhythm Disorders

Common Diagnostic Tests:

• Electrocardiogram (ECG): Records the heart’s electrical activity
• Holter monitor: A portable ECG device worn for 24-48 hours
• Electrophysiology study: Evaluates the heart’s electrical system
   

Treatment Approaches for Arrhythmias:

• Medications: Antiarrhythmics, beta-blockers, and blood thinners
• Catheter ablation: Destroys abnormal electrical pathways
• Pacemakers and ICDs: Devices that regulate or correct heart rhythm
• Lifestyle modifications: Regular exercise, healthy diet, and avoiding stimulants

Meet the Best Cardiologists at Felix Hospital for Arrhythmia

If you are experiencing symptoms of arrhythmia, consult the Best Heart Arrhythmia Doctors in Noida at Felix Hospital. The team includes:
 

• Dr. Rahul Arora
   
• Dr. Siddharth Samrat
   
• Dr. Virendra Singh
   

These experienced cardiologists specialize in diagnosing and treating various Types of Heart Arrhythmia with cutting-edge technology and personalized care.
 

Worried About Irregular Heartbeats? Schedule your consultation today and ensure a healthier heart!

Conclusion

Early detection and timely treatment of heart rhythm disorders are essential in preventing severe complications. If you experience irregular heartbeats or any related symptoms, consult a specialist immediately. The Heart Arrhythmia Treatments Cost in Noida varies depending on the type of arrhythmia, diagnostic tests, and treatment approach.

FAQs on Heart Arrhythmia

Q- Can stress and anxiety directly cause arrhythmias like AFib or SVT?
Ans- Yes, high levels of stress and anxiety can trigger certain arrhythmias, such as atrial fibrillation (AFib) and supraventricular tachycardia (SVT). Stress hormones increase heart rate and may contribute to irregular rhythms. Managing stress through lifestyle changes can help reduce episodes.
 

Q- How do I know if my palpitations are harmless or a sign of a serious arrhythmia?
Ans- Occasional palpitations due to caffeine, stress, or dehydration are usually harmless. However, if you experience frequent palpitations, dizziness, fainting, or chest pain, it could indicate a serious arrhythmia and requires immediate medical evaluation.
 

Q- What is the difference between an ICD and a pacemaker for treating arrhythmias?
Ans- A pacemaker is used to regulate a slow heartbeat (bradycardia), ensuring the heart maintains a steady rhythm. An implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) is designed to detect and correct life-threatening fast arrhythmias, like ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation, by delivering electric shocks.
 

Q- Are PVCs dangerous if I don’t have underlying heart disease?
Ans- In most cases, premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) are benign, especially if you have a healthy heart. However, frequent PVCs (more than 10,000 per day) can lead to complications like cardiomyopathy, so a cardiology evaluation is recommended.
 

Q- Can I completely cure an arrhythmia with treatment?
Ans- Some arrhythmias, like AFib or SVT, can be permanently treated with catheter ablation, while others, such as genetic arrhythmias (LQTS) or heart block, may require lifelong management with medication or devices like pacemakers. The success of treatment depends on the type and cause of the arrhythmia.
 

Q- How does thyroid disease contribute to heart arrhythmias?
Ans- Both hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) and hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) can disrupt the heart's electrical signals. Hyperthyroidism may cause AFib, while hypothyroidism can lead to bradycardia. Managing thyroid function is crucial for maintaining normal heart rhythm.