Heart Rhythm Problems

Symptoms of a heart rhythm problem vary from person to person and range from mild or no symptoms to symptoms that are distressing and severe. You may have symptoms all or most of the time or in response to certain triggers. 

Symptoms of heart rhythm problems may include:

• fluttering in your chest (palpitations)

• racing heart (tachycardia)

• slow heart (bradycardia)

• chest pain

• shortness of breath

• light-headedness

• dizziness

• sweating

• fainting

Heart rhythm problems can have several causes, including a condition that affects the electrical system within your heart, another underlying health condition and substances like some medicines, alcohol or caffeine. 

Some common risk factors for heart rhythm problems include:

• heart disease or previous heart surgery

• high blood pressure

• thyroid problems

• diabetes

• obstructive sleep apnoea

• electrolyte imbalances

• drinking too much alcohol

• smoking

• caffeine 

• some over-the-counter drugs or supplements

• some recreational drugs

At your initial consultation, you’ll be seen by a consultant cardiologist. They’ll ask you about your symptoms, general health, family and medical history and any medications you take regularly. They may also perform a physical examination. 

There are several tests our cardiology team can do to help check how well your heart is working and confirm or rule out a diagnosis. 

These may include: 

• blood tests 

• electrocardiogram (ECG)

• ambulatory monitors

• cardiac stress test

• echocardiogram

• cardiac catheterisation

• electrophysiology study (EPS)

• tilt table test

• CT scan 

• heart MRI

Your consultant will make a diagnosis based on a combination of your symptoms, physical examination, and test results. They’ll explain your diagnosis to you and create a personalised treatment plan that best suits your needs.

It isn’t always possible to prevent heart rhythm problems, but there are some things you can do to reduce the risk, including:

• eating a healthy, balanced diet

• taking regular exercise

• not smoking

• avoiding caffeine and alcohol

• maintaining a healthy weight

• managing stress

• using caution and following the instructions carefully when taking over-the-counter medications (including cold and cough medications)

There are many types of heart rhythm problems, and many are not harmful. However, in rare cases, some heart rhythm problems can be serious or even life-threatening. 

Possible complications of heart rhythm problems include: 

• cardiac arrest 

• stroke

• heart failure

• cognitive issues such as dementia or memory problems 

• more serious arrhythmias

How your heart rhythm problem is treated depends on the type of arrhythmia you have and what's causing it. You may not need any treatment, and your cardiologist will advise regular check-ups to monitor your condition. 

If you do need treatment, your cardiologist will create a treatment plan for you based on your symptoms, diagnosis and any underlying conditions you have. 

Possible treatments for heart rhythm problems include:

• medication 

• ablation 

• cardioversion – resetting your heart rhythm using a controlled electric shock 

• a pacemaker or implantable defibrillator –  a small electronic device that is inserted under your skin to monitor and correct your heart rhythm 

At Welbeck, our cardiologists are experts in their field and are dedicated to providing world-class care to every patient.

With access to colleagues across other specialities, our consultants are also able to refer within the Welbeck ecosystem if required to ensure you receive the treatment you need as quickly as possible, all under one roof.  

All appointments, testing, treatment, and follow-up appointments take place within our state-of-the-art facilities, enabling us to deliver accurate diagnostics and advanced treatments.

Your health is important to us, so we strive to offer same-day appointments whenever possible.

Our consultants are recognised by the major health insurance companies. If you have private health insurance, your treatment at Welbeck can begin once you have obtained authorisation. We also provide care to self-paying patients. Learn more about the different payment options at Welbeck.

Get in touch today to book an appointment.