Spotlight Video | Heart Arrhythmias | Chirag D. Patel, MD, FACC, FSCAI

Chirag Patel Cardiologist South Orange, NJ

Chirag D. Patel, MD, FACC, FSCAI, is an interventional cardiologist at South Orange Avenue Medical Associates in South Orange and Newark, New Jersey. In addition to his clinical responsibilities, he is a managing partner for the practice. He maintains hospital privileges at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center and RWJUH New... more

Understanding Heart Arrhythmias: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Heart arrhythmias are abnormal heart rhythms that can disrupt the normal beating of the heart. These irregularities can cause the heart to beat too fast, too slow, or with an irregular pattern. While some arrhythmias are harmless, others can be life-threatening. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for heart arrhythmias is crucial for maintaining good heart health.

Causes:

Heart arrhythmias can result from various factors, including:

Heart Conditions: Conditions like coronary artery disease, heart attack, and heart valve disease can damage the heart's electrical system, leading to arrhythmias.
High Blood Pressure: Hypertension can strain the heart and disrupt its electrical signals.
Abnormal Heart Structure: Congenital heart defects or an enlarged heart can increase the risk of arrhythmias.
Stress: Emotional stress or anxiety can trigger arrhythmias, particularly in individuals with an underlying heart condition.
Medications and Stimulants: Certain medications, caffeine, nicotine, and recreational drugs can provoke arrhythmias.

Symptoms:

The symptoms of heart arrhythmias can vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. Common symptoms include:

Palpitations: Feeling like the heart is fluttering, pounding, or racing.
Dizziness or Lightheadedness: Often due to decreased blood flow to the brain.
Fatigue: Feeling excessively tired, especially during physical activity.
Chest Pain or Discomfort: Some arrhythmias, like atrial fibrillation, can cause chest pain.
Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing may occur during episodes of arrhythmia.
Fainting (Syncope): In severe cases, arrhythmias can lead to fainting spells.

Treatment:

Treatment for heart arrhythmias depends on the type and severity of the condition. Common treatment options include:

Medications: Antiarrhythmic drugs can help regulate heart rhythms and reduce the risk of complications.
Cardioversion: This procedure uses electric shocks to reset the heart's rhythm.
Catheter Ablation: During this minimally invasive procedure, a catheter is used to destroy abnormal heart tissue that triggers arrhythmias.
Implantable Devices: Pacemakers and implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) can help manage certain arrhythmias.
Lifestyle Changes: Managing underlying causes like high blood pressure, reducing stress, and avoiding stimulants can help prevent arrhythmias.

Heart arrhythmias are a common heart-related issue, and while many are benign, some can pose serious health risks. If you experience any symptoms or suspect you have an arrhythmia, it's crucial to seek medical evaluation and guidance from a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate treatment plan and ensure the health of your heart.
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