Is Arrhythmia a Serious Health Concern?

Arrhythmias are one of the most common heart-related health problems, affecting up to 15 million Americans. Thankfully, various treatments can prevent the condition from worsening and protect your cardiovascular health.

Dr. Aruna Chakala, our experienced internal medicine physician at Plainsboro Princeton Medical Associates in Plainsboro Township and Monroe, New Jersey, understands the dangers of heart arrhythmia. After a review of your medical records and a physical exam, she can make personalized recommendations to restore your heart rhythm and reduce your risk of complications.

What is arrhythmia?

Arrhythmia is the medical term for an abnormal or irregular heartbeat. Almost everyone’s heartbeat fluctuates occasionally due to exercise, drinking caffeine, or nicotine consumption. However, if your symptoms continue for days, even weeks, it can increase your risk of more health problems.

Arrhythmias affect everyone differently. In some people, the heart beats too fast and beats too slow for others. Regardless, an irregular heartbeat affects blood flow throughout the body, affecting the supply of oxygen and other vital nutrients.

Is arrhythmia a health concern?

It depends. Some types of arrhythmia are harmless and improve on their own, while others increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. Often, the severity lies somewhere between these two extremes. After an exam, your provider can identify the type of arrhythmia you have and determine the best course of action.

Understanding the types of arrhythmias

Several types of arrhythmia exist, including:

Supraventricular arrhythmias

This type occurs in the atria, the upper chamber of the heart.

Ventricular arrhythmias

This type begins in the ventricles or lower chambers of the heart.

Bradyarrhythmias and junctional rhythms

A problem with the heart’s conduction system - a network of specialized cells and nodes that keep your heart beating - causes this type of arrhythmia.

When to see a doctor about an arrhythmia

Make an appointment at Plainsboro Princeton Medical Associates if you notice your heart beating too fast, too slow, or skipping a beat. Even though most arrhythmias are nothing to worry about, getting screened is essential. Without proper treatment, certain types of arrhythmias increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, and cardiomyopathy (a weakened heart muscle).

How is an arrhythmia diagnosed?

Diagnosing an arrhythmia is a quick and noninvasive process. 

First, your provider takes your pulse and listens to your heart, checking for irregularities. Then, they complete a physical exam and order specialized tests, such as an electrocardiogram (EKG). An EKG measures your heart’s electrical activity and can confirm an arrhythmia. 

After identifying the arrhythmia type and its severity, your provider makes personalized treatment recommendations.

Treating an arrhythmia

Treatment of an arrhythmia depends on its severity and cause. Often, we recommend a comprehensive approach that includes:

• Medication
• Healthy lifestyle changes
• Therapies

If your arrhythmia continues or doesn’t respond to non- and minimally invasive treatments, you might benefit from surgery, such as coronary artery bypass or pacemaker implantation. In these instances, we refer you to a nearby cardiologist (heart specialist) and coordinate your care.

Arrhythmias can significantly affect your cardiovascular health, but with intervention and treatment, it’s possible to prevent them from worsening. We can help you improve your cardiovascular health and restore a regular heartbeat. Call our office at 609-799-5000 or request an appointment online today.