Illustration of heart shape on an EKG printout.

Heart Rhythm Abnormalities

Types of Heart Arrhythmias

  • Atrial Fibrillation: An irregular and rapid heartbeat in the upper chambers of the heart
  • Atrial Flutter: A rapid regular heartbeat in the upper chambers of the heart
  • Bradycardia: Slow heart rate (below 60 bpm)
  • Premature Atrial Contractions (PAC): Early heartbeat from the upper chambers of the heart
  • Premature Ventricular Contractions (PVC): Extra heartbeats coming from the lower chambers of the heart (ventricles)
  • Tachycardia: Fast heart rate (above 100 bpm)
  • Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT): Rapid heartbeats originating in the upper chambers of the heart
  • Ventricular Tachycardia (VT): A fast heart rhythm from the lower chambers of the heart (ventricles)

Symptoms Associated with Arrhythmias 

  • Palpitations
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Shortness of breath
  • Chest Pain
  • Fainting

How to Diagnose Arrhythmias

  • Electrocardiogram (ECG): Records the heart’s electrical activity to detect abnormalities
  • Holter Monitor: A portable ECG that records heart rhythm over a longer period of time
  • Event Recorder: An implanted device that records heart rhythm when symptoms occur
  • Echocardiogram: An ultrasound of the heart to assess its structure and function

How to Treat Arrhythmias

Medications 

  • Heart Rate Control
  • Heart Rhythm Control
  • Blood Thinners

Procedures

  • Catheter Ablation: A procedure to destroy tissue causing the arrhythmia
  • Electrical Cardioversion: A procedure to reset the heart rhythm with an electrical shock
  • Implantable Devices: Such as pacemakers or implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) to control the rate / rhythm of the heart
  • Lifestyle Changes: Managing stress, quitting smoking, reducing alcohol and caffeine intake

How to Treat Arrhythmias

If you are experiencing any symptoms of atrial fibrillation, we strongly recommend reaching out to your primary care provider. If you do not currently have a primary care provider, you can contact WellConnect at 812.376.5136.

Contact Us:

Southern Indiana Heart & Vascular:
812.379.2020
Please note that Southern Indiana Heart and Vascular requires  a referral from your primary care provider to be seen in our office. 

IU Health Cardiovascular Surgery @ Columbus Regional Health:
812.376.0555

Vascular Center of Southern Indiana Surgery Inc.:  
812.372.2245

Middle-aged couple smiling and walking in nature.

What is Atrial Fibrillation?

Atrial fibrillation, sometimes referred to as AFib or AF, is the most common type of cardiac arrhythmia or abnormal heart rhythm. It is estimated that 5.8 million Americans are diagnosed with AFib. 

What are the Different Types of AFib?

The heart rhythm society defines AFib by the duration of the AFib episode. The longer an individual is consistently in AFib, the further along AFib is on the progression scale. The different types of AFib are: 

  • Occasional or Paroxysmal AFib: Occurs and ceases within 7 days of onset; also known as “Paroxysmal AFib”.
  • Persistent AFib: Continuous AFib that lasts for more than 7 days.
  • Long-Standing Persistent AFib: Failure to maintain sinus rhythm with intervention.

Treatment options for AFib:

Early treatment is essential for overcoming AFib. Treatment options include:

  • Medications
  • Cardioversion
  • Catheter Ablation