Arrhythmia
Arrhythmia
Types, Causes, and Treatment Options
When your heart rhythm is irregular or out of sync, it can cause you to feel fatigued and potentially place you at higher risk for heart-related complications. The team of cardiologists at Phoenix Heart has expertise in diagnosing, treating, and managing heart arrhythmias, such as atrial fibrillation, bradycardia, and tachycardia. If you have an irregular heart rhythm, call or book an appointment with a Phoenix Heart location in Glendale, Avondale, Anthem, Buckeye, Laveen, Cottonwood, or Black Canyon City, Arizona.
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Arrhythmia
What is an Arrhythmia?
- Bradycardia, or slow heartbeat
- Tachycardia, or fast heartbeat
- Atrial fibrillation, or atrial flutter
- Ventricular fibrillation
- Premature ventricular contraction, or extra beats
Arrhythmias are caused by an interruption in the electrical pathways of the heart’s conduction system.
What Causes Arrhythmias?
- Age
- Chest trauma
- Heart attack
- Heart disease
- Heart surgery
- Coronary artery disease
- Medications
- Stressful lifestyle
- Viral infections
- Metabolic disorders
- Electrolyte imbalances
- Hormonal imbalances
What are Symptoms of Arrhythmias?
- Heart palpitations
- Dizziness, fainting, or lightheadedness
- Sweating
- Shortness of breath
- Racing or pounding heartbeat
- General weakness or fatigue
- Chest pain

What are Possible Treatments for Arrhythmias?
Initially, your provider takes a detailed health history and performs a complete physical assessment. They may also conduct an EKG, echocardiogram, blood studies, or electrophysiology studies.
In some cases, your provider suggests that they simply monitor your arrhythmia for symptoms, or that you make lifestyle or dietary changes. In other cases, medications or invasive procedures may be required. Procedures include:
- Cardioversion or defibrillation, shocking the heart back into rhythm
- Ablation, a procedure to interrupt the electrical pathway
- Pacemaker or internal defibrillator, to help maintain a regular rhythm