Arrhythmia symptoms, causes, diagnosis and treatment guidance.
Overview
What is an arrhythmia?
An arrhythmia is a heart rhythm that isn't normal. Your heart may be beating too fast or too slow, or just not beating in a regular pattern. Arrhythmias range from harmless to serious; some have symptoms and some don't.
How common are arrhythmias?
- 5% of all people in India every year (1 in every 20)
Who is commonly affected?
Arrhythmias commonly affect people who
- Use tobacco products
- Drink alcohol
- Consume caffeinated drinks
- Have thyroid problems
- Are overweight
- Have high blood sugar
- Have sleep issues
What causes an arrhythmia?
- Heart conditions
- High blood pressure
- Heart valve issues
- Previous heart attack
- Certain medicines
- Fever, infection, dehydration, stress, inflammation or a lack of sleep
Signs and symptoms
- Fast heartbeat
- Difficulty eating
- Dizziness or light headedness
- Fainting
- Shortness of breath
- Chest discomfort
- Weakness or tiredness
Warning signs of a severe condition
- Chest pain.
- Fainting or severe weakness.
- Shortness of breath
Diagnosis
- Electrocardiogram or a graph recording of your heartbeats
- Blood test
- Echocardiography to view how well your heart is pumping blood
- Computed tomography/magnetic resonance imaging or X-ray
Treatment
An irregular heartbeat can be managed by:
- Medicines to control your heart rhythm and heart rate
- Managing blood pressure and blood sugar levels
- Quitting smoking
- Avoiding caffeine
- Surgery to place certain small devices near your heart to control its rate
What is an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD)?
An implantable cardioverter-defibrillator, also called an ICD, is a small battery-powered device placed in the chest. It detects and stops irregular heartbeats. An ICD constantly checks the heartbeat. It delivers small electric shocks, when needed, to restore a regular heartbeat.
What happens before the surgery to place this device?
Before the surgery, your doctor will:
- You will undergo some tests including blood tests and an electrocardiogram to view your heartbeat
- Review all medicines that you take
- Fast before the procedure
What happens during the surgery?
- You are given a medicine to help you relax and not feel any pain. In some cases, you might be put to sleep
- Depending on the exact surgery, a cut is made near your collarbone, chest or abdomen
- Wires are placed near your heart
- The device is placed under your skin
- The leads of the device is connected to your heart
- The device is tested to ensure it works
- The surgical site is stitched back up
Type of anaesthesia: General/local
Duration of surgery: 1-2 hrs
Benefits of this surgery
- Treat life-threatening arrhythmia and heart conditions
- Give valuable medical information to your doctor
What are the possible risks?
- Bleeding or infection
- Damage to the blood vessels by your leads
- Device malfunction
- Internal tears
- Swelling
- Shock
Post-surgery care
- You will mostly go home on the same day as the procedure
- Some pain or soreness is expected at the surgical site. You might be prescribed some pain medicines
- Don't make any sudden movements for about 8 weeks after getting an ICD
- Do not raise your left arm above your shoulder as it may move the device inside
- Discuss with your doctor as to when you can resume driving
Lifestyle & Prevention
Recommended diet
- Fruits and vegetables daily
- Whole grains
- Lean proteins
- Avoid eating fried food
- Reduce salt intake
Exercise
- Avoid energetic sports and heavy lifting for about 4 weeks after the surgery
Precautions
- Avoid keeping cell phones near your chest
- Have a medical card stating you have an ICD handy with you to show to any security personnel like at airports
- Stay away from power generators and welding equipment
- Keep any magnetic items at least 6 inches away from your chest
When to contact a doctor?
- Bleeding or other fluids (like pus) coming from the surgical site
- Fever or chills
- Pain that's getting worse or isn't getting better with time
- Redness or swelling that doesn't improve
Myths and Facts
An ICD is the same as a pacemaker.
An ICD isn't the same as a pacemaker. A pacemaker is a device used to prevent dangerously slow heartbeat while an ICD restores any irregular heartbeat to normal rhythm
Shocks from an ICD can be painful.
An ICD can be programmed to give low-energy or high-energy shocks. A low-energy shock can feel like a flutter or thump in your chest.
If I have a fast heart rate, it just means I am stressed or am drinking too much caffeine
Factors like stress, caffeine intake and exercise can cause a temporary increase in heart rate. However, increased heart rate occurring more regularly or over a longer period of time can be a sign of other conditions and should be examined by a medical professional,
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does an implantable cardioverter defibrillator last?
ICD batteries last up to seven years. But this can vary depending on how often you're receiving shocks. Your healthcare provider should check your ICD every three to six months.
Can stress or anxiety cause arrhythmias?
Yes. Emotional stress, anxiety, and lack of sleep can sometimes trigger temporary abnormal heart rhythms. These are usually not dangerous in healthy hearts, but they should be evaluated if they happen repeatedly.
Can lifestyle changes alone control arrhythmias?
Yes, in mild cases. Reducing alcohol, avoiding smoking, managing stress, sleeping well, and maintaining a healthy weight can help control or reduce episodes in some people, but medical treatment may still be needed depending on severity.
