Your Trusted Heart Rhythm AbnormalitiesTreatment and Prevention Experts In South Dakota
What are Heart Rhythm Abnormalities
The human heart has an electrical system conducting electricity to all four heart chambers. This system causes the heart to squeeze and contract, pumping blood to the body. Heart rhythm abnormalities develop when problems with the electrical system occur. In some the heart may beat too fast, while in others it may beat too slow.
Symptoms of Heart Rhythm Abnormalities
A heart arrhythmia may not cause symptoms. In patients with atrial fibrillation, for example, approximately 50% of patients do not experience any concerning symptoms. The most common symptoms include:
- Irregular heartbeat, also known as palpitations
- Fluttering or racing sensation in the chest
- Shortness of breath
- Chest discomfort
- Anxiety, dizziness
- Fatigue, malaise
- Fainting, or almost passing out
If you are having chest pain, significant shortness of breath, or fainting call 911.
Most common types of Heart Rhythm Abnormalities
- Atrial fibrillation, or “A-Fib”
- Atrial flutter
- Atrial tachycardia
- Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT)
- Heart block
- Premature ventricular contractions (PVCs)
- Sick sinus syndrome, or “Tachy-Brady Syndrome”
- Ventricular tachycardia
Diagnosis of Heart Rhythm Abnormalities
The diagnosis of coronary artery disease (CAD) is made by a doctor who asks questions about your medical history and personally examines you. Additionally, diagnostic testing such as blood tests and electrocardiography (EKG) play important roles. More advanced testing such as echocardiography, stress testing, CT imaging, and invasive coronary angiography (heart catheterization) play diagnostic and therapeutic roles.
Experienced Care for Heart Rhythm Abnormalities Symptoms in the Black Hills
If you are having chest pain, significant shortness of breath, or fainting call 911. If you are having symptoms concerning for heart rhythm abnormalities, please call Black Hills Heart and Vascular Institute at (605) 503-8192 to schedule an appointment or discuss with your primary care physician (PCP).
