What Is Cardiac Arrhythmia?

Cardiac arrhythmia refers to any abnormality in the heart’s rhythm. This includes heartbeats that are too fast (tachycardia), too slow (bradycardia), or irregular (such as atrial fibrillation). These rhythm disturbances are often caused by disruptions in the heart’s electrical signaling system and can range from harmless to life-threatening. Arrhythmias may occur due to underlying heart disease, high blood pressure, electrolyte imbalances, stress, or certain medications. In some cases, the cause is genetic or unknown. Left untreated, serious arrhythmias can lead to complications such as stroke, heart failure, or sudden cardiac arrest.

Common Symptoms of Cardiac Arrhythmia

Symptoms of cardiac arrhythmia vary based on the type and severity of the condition but may include:

  • Palpitations (a fluttering or racing heartbeat)
  • Shortness of breath
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Chest discomfort
  • Fatigue
  • Fainting or near-fainting spells

In some cases, patients may have no symptoms at all and discover the arrhythmia during a routine checkup or ECG.

Physician explaing Cardiac Arrhythmia to patient

Diagnosis and Treatment Options

Accurate diagnosis is the first step in managing arrhythmia. At San Diego Cardiac Center, we use a range of advanced diagnostic tools to pinpoint the type and source of your arrhythmia, including:

  • Electrocardiogram (ECG)
  • Holter or event monitors
  • Echocardiogram
  • Stress testing
  • Electrophysiology studies

Treatment depends on the nature of the arrhythmia and may include:

  • Medications to control heart rate or rhythm
  • Lifestyle changes such as limiting caffeine or managing stress
  • Cardioversion, a procedure to restore normal rhythm
  • Catheter ablation, which targets abnormal electrical pathways
  • Pacemakers or implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) for rhythm support
  • In rare cases, surgery may be required

Early intervention is key to preventing long-term complications. Our goal is to restore and maintain a normal rhythm while reducing the risk of stroke or heart failure.

Why Choose San Diego Cardiac Center?

San Diego Cardiac Center is a trusted leader in treating cardiac arrhythmia, offering expert care, advanced technology, and a patient-first approach. Our board-certified cardiologists specialize in diagnosing and managing all types of arrhythmias, from atrial fibrillation to more complex rhythm disorders.

Using state-of-the-art diagnostics and customized treatment plans—including medication, ablation, or device therapy—we deliver high-quality outcomes in a compassionate setting. Patients across the region choose us for expert care in cardiac arrhythmia in San Diego.

San Diego Cardiac Center

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