An arrhythmia is any problem with the heart’s electrical system that causes the heartbeat to become too fast, too slow, or irregular.
Yes — many people experience occasional extra beats or palpitations. Some arrhythmias are harmless, while others need treatment to reduce the risk of stroke, heart failure, or fainting.
Fluttering or pounding in the chest, skipped beats, dizziness, breathlessness, tiredness, chest discomfort, or blackouts.
They can result from structural heart changes, high blood pressure, thyroid problems, inherited conditions, medication, stimulants (caffeine, alcohol), or sometimes no clear reason.
No. Many are benign, but if they’re frequent, prolonged, or associated with chest pain, collapse, or breathlessness, you should seek prompt medical advice.
If symptoms are new, worsening, prolonged, or cause you to faint or feel unwell, a specialist review is recommended.
Electrocardiogram (ECG), Holter or event monitors (24 h–14 day recordings), echocardiogram, exercise testing, and sometimes an electrophysiology (EP) study.
Usually not, but always check before your appointment. For an EP study, you may be asked to pause certain drugs.
A first consultation usually lasts 30–45 minutes, allowing time to review your history, examine you, and discuss investigations.
Options include lifestyle changes, medication, catheter ablation (targeted treatment of the abnormal circuit), cardioversion, pacemaker or defibrillator implantation.
Ablation is a keyhole procedure performed under local anaesthetic and light sedation. A fine catheter is guided into the heart to cauterise or freeze the tissue causing the abnormal rhythm. It’s offered when symptoms are troublesome or medication is not effective or tolerated.
Success depends on the type of arrhythmia. For SVT it’s >90%; for typical atrial flutter ~90%; for atrial fibrillation 60–80% after one procedure (higher with repeat).
Complications are uncommon but may include bruising, bleeding, infection, damage to blood vessels or heart, stroke, or — very rarely — death. Your doctor will explain individual risks before treatment.
Anti-arrhythmic drugs (e.g., flecainide, sotalol, amiodarone) can reduce episodes but may cause dizziness, nausea, or changes on ECG or blood tests. Your specialist will choose the safest option for you.
Most people can remain active, but the level depends on the type of rhythm problem and treatment. Always discuss new or vigorous training with your cardiologist.
Maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol and caffeine, avoiding smoking, and managing stress help keep your heart healthy
Yes, both can trigger or exaggerate symptoms in some people.
Some people stop drugs after a short period; others continue for stroke prevention or if there’s a risk of recurrence.
A repeat ablation or medication adjustment can often help. Occasionally other therapies are considered.