Arrhythmia: When Your Heartbeat Feels Different
A racing, fluttering or unusually slow heartbeat can have several causes. Repeated episodes deserve a closer look.
Treatment at a glance
Addressing the cause
Medicines
Procedures or devices
The first step is to identify the rhythm. Treatment differs for fast, slow and irregular heartbeats.
Before your consultation
Use these points to prepare for your consultation.
- How often do episodes happen, and how long do they last?
- Do you feel faint or breathless at the same time?
- Bring any ECG or wearable recordings you already have.
Palpitations with chest pain, breathlessness, fainting or marked dizziness need emergency assessment. Do not drive yourself.
Understanding arrhythmia
A racing, fluttering or unusually slow heartbeat can have several causes. Repeated episodes deserve a closer look.
What it means
An arrhythmia is a disturbance in the electrical signals that control the heartbeat. The heart may beat too quickly, too slowly or irregularly. Some rhythm changes need only monitoring, while others require treatment. Palpitations are a symptom and do not identify the rhythm problem on their own.
Symptoms to recognise
A racing, pounding or fluttering sensation; A feeling that the heart has skipped a beat; Dizziness, faintness or reduced stamina; Breathlessness or chest discomfort during an episode.
Treatment at a glance
The first step is to identify the rhythm. Treatment differs for fast, slow and irregular heartbeats.
When to seek care
Arrange assessment for recurring or worsening palpitations. A wearable alert should be reviewed rather than treated as a diagnosis.
Symptoms to recognise
- A racing, pounding or fluttering sensation
- A feeling that the heart has skipped a beat
- Dizziness, faintness or reduced stamina
- Breathlessness or chest discomfort during an episode
Causes and risk factors
Discuss your medical history and these factors during your assessment.
How it is assessed
The choice of tests depends on your symptoms and the findings of your assessment.
1. Clinical assessment
An ECG helps identify the rhythm. If episodes come and go, a portable monitor may be useful.
2. Tests and investigations
Your doctor may also request blood tests or an echocardiogram to look for an underlying cause.
3. Further assessment
A recording during symptoms can be particularly helpful.
Treatment approaches
Medical care and ongoing management
- Addressing the cause: Care may involve treating another condition or reviewing medicines and possible triggers.
- Medicines: Selected medicines help control heart rate or rhythm. The choice depends on the diagnosis.
Procedures or devices
Some arrhythmias need cardioversion, catheter ablation or an implanted device. These require specialist assessment.
Ask your specialist about the expected benefits, risks and alternatives for your circumstances.
When to seek care
Enquire about a heart rhythm assessment for repeated palpitations or an abnormal ECG.
Arrange a review
Plan your next consultation
- Arrange assessment for recurring or worsening palpitations. A wearable alert should be reviewed rather than treated as a diagnosis.
Seek urgent care
Do not wait for a routine appointment when urgent warning signs occur.
- Palpitations with chest pain, breathlessness, fainting or marked dizziness need emergency assessment. Do not drive yourself.
Not Sure What You Need?
Enquire about a heart rhythm assessment for repeated palpitations or an abnormal ECG.
Talk to Care GuideHave you noticed a change in your heartbeat?
Contact Mediversal Simran Hospital, Begusarai, about an assessment and bring any recordings of the episodes.
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