Arrhythmia refers to an irregular heartbeat—either too fast (tachycardia), too slow (bradycardia), or erratic. While some arrhythmias are harmless, others can lead to severe complications, including stroke, heart failure, or cardiac arrest. Managing arrhythmias effectively is crucial to maintaining heart health, and treatment options vary based on the severity and type of arrhythmia.
Dr. Tanmai Yermal, a leading Consultant Interventional Cardiologist in Kharadi, Pune, specializes in arrhythmia management, providing expert care through medications, ablation therapy, and pacemaker implantation.
Understanding Arrhythmia and Its Causes
Arrhythmia occurs due to disruptions in the electrical signals that regulate heartbeats. It can arise from:
- Heart diseases (coronary artery disease, heart attacks)
- Electrolyte imbalances (potassium, sodium, calcium irregularities)
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- Excessive caffeine or alcohol consumption
- Thyroid disorders
- Congenital heart defects
The symptoms of arrhythmia can include palpitations, dizziness, shortness of breath, chest discomfort, and fainting spells. If left untreated, some forms of arrhythmia can be life-threatening.
Treatment Options for Arrhythmia
Arrhythmia management depends on the type and severity of the condition. The three primary treatment options include:
1. Medications for Arrhythmia Control
Medications are the first line of treatment for many arrhythmia cases. Dr. Yermal carefully prescribes medications based on individual patient needs. Common classes of drugs include:
- Antiarrhythmic Drugs: Regulate heart rhythms (e.g., Amiodarone, Flecainide)
- Beta-Blockers: Reduce heart rate and prevent tachycardia (e.g., Metoprolol, Propranolol)
- Calcium Channel Blockers: Control heart rate (e.g., Diltiazem, Verapamil)
- Anticoagulants (Blood Thinners): Prevent stroke in atrial fibrillation cases (e.g., Warfarin, Apixaban)
While medications are effective for many patients, some may experience side effects such as fatigue, dizziness, or low blood pressure. In cases where medications are insufficient, advanced procedures may be required.
2. Catheter Ablation: A Minimally Invasive Solution
Catheter ablation is a non-surgical procedure that targets and destroys abnormal heart tissue responsible for irregular electrical signals. It is particularly beneficial for patients with:
- Atrial fibrillation (AFib)
- Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT)
- Ventricular tachycardia
How Ablation Works
- A thin catheter is inserted into a blood vessel (typically through the groin) and guided to the heart.
- Radiofrequency (heat) or cryotherapy (cold) energy is used to destroy the problematic heart tissue causing arrhythmia.
- The procedure restores normal electrical signaling in the heart.
Benefits of Catheter Ablation
- Minimally invasive – No open-heart surgery required
- High success rates – Effective for many types of arrhythmias
- Short recovery time – Most patients resume normal activities within a few days
Dr. Yermal is skilled in performing catheter ablation procedures for arrhythmia patients, offering long-term relief without the need for lifelong medication in some cases.
3. Pacemakers: Regulating the Heartbeat
For patients with slow heart rhythms (bradycardia), a pacemaker may be necessary. A pacemaker is a small electronic device implanted under the skin to help maintain a normal heart rate.
How a Pacemaker Works
- The pacemaker is implanted under the collarbone and connected to the heart via thin wires.
- It monitors the heartbeat and sends electrical impulses when necessary to keep the heart beating at a healthy rate.
Benefits of a Pacemaker
- Improves heart function and prevents complications like fainting and fatigue
- Enhances quality of life by maintaining a normal heart rhythm
- Long-lasting solution with routine monitoring
Some modern pacemakers also have wireless monitoring and adjustable settings to match patient activity levels.
Arrhythmia can significantly impact daily life, but with early diagnosis and expert treatment, patients can manage their condition effectively. Whether through medications, ablation, or pacemaker therapy, Dr. Tanmai Yermal provides personalized care to help patients achieve optimal heart health.
If you or a loved one is experiencing heart rhythm irregularities, consult Dr. Yermal for advanced arrhythmia management in Kharadi, Pune. With cutting-edge treatments and expert care, you can take proactive steps toward a healthier heart and better quality of life.
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