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Arrhythmia

If your heart beats too fast, too slow, or feels out of sync, you might have an arrhythmia. Some are harmless, but others can lead to serious health risks. We’re here to find the cause and help you stay healthy.

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Arrhythmia care designed for your heart health

Arrhythmia is when your heart beats too fast, too slow or unevenly. This happens when the electrical signals in your heart don’t work right. Some arrhythmias are not serious, but others can cause dizziness, fainting or stroke.

We use advanced heart tests to find out what is causing your irregular heartbeat and make a treatment plan that fits you. Whether your heart races, slows down or flutters, we are here to help you feel better.

We diagnose and treat arrhythmias to help your heart stay healthy and stable.

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Conditions

There are many types of arrhythmias, each affecting the heart's rhythm in different ways. We specialize in diagnosing and treating all types of arrhythmias to help restore normal heart function and improve your health. Some of the most common conditions we treat include:

  • Atrial fibrillation (AFib): A fast, uneven heartbeat that can raise the risk of stroke
  • Bradycardia: A slow heartbeat that can make you feel dizzy or tired
  • Brugada syndrome: An inherited condition that can lead to dangerous arrhythmias
  • Long QT syndrome: An inherited condition that can increase the risk of arrhythmias
  • Premature ventricular contractions: Extra beats that make your heart feel like it is fluttering or skipping
  • Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT): A fast heartbeat that starts in the upper heart chambers
  • Syncope: Fainting or passing out
  • Ventricular tachycardia: A rapid heart rhythm that can cause fainting or more serious problems
  • Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome: A genetic condition that can cause fast heartbeats
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Testing

To find out what is causing an irregular heartbeat, we use advanced tests to check how the heart’s electrical system is working. These tests help us diagnose arrhythmias and create the best treatment plan for you.

  • Echocardiogram: An ultrasound that shows how the heart is beating and pumping blood
  • Electrocardiogram (EKG): A quick test that records the heart’s electrical activity to detect arrhythmias
  • Electrophysiology study: A test that maps the heart’s electrical signals to find problem areas
  • Implantable loop recorder: A small device placed under the skin to monitor heart activity for months or years
  • Mobile cardiac monitor: A wearable device that tracks and records your heart rhythm over time
  • Stress test: A test that checks how the heart responds to exercise or medication
  • Tilt table test: A test that checks how your heart responds when you change positions

We use the latest technology to get a clear picture of your heart’s rhythm and help you feel your best.

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Treatments

Once we find the cause of an irregular heartbeat, we create a treatment plan to help keep your heart in rhythm and improve your overall health. We offer many treatments, from lifestyle changes to advanced procedures, to meet each person’s needs.

  • Cardioversion: A controlled electrical shock or medicine to reset an irregular heartbeat, often used for AFib or other fast heart rhythms
  • Catheter ablation: A thin tube (catheter) is guided to the heart and energy is used to stop the source of the irregular rhythm
  • Implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD): A device placed under the skin that monitors heart rhythm and delivers a shock if a dangerous heartbeat is detected, often used for people at risk of sudden cardiac arrest
  • Left atrial appendage closure: A procedure for people with AFib who cannot take blood thinners to help prevent stroke
  • Lifestyle guidance: Personalized tips on diet, exercise and daily habits to manage arrhythmias and support heart health
  • Medications: Medicines that help control heart rate, regulate rhythm or prevent blood clots, often used for AFib
  • Pacemaker: A small device under the skin near the collarbone that sends electrical signals to keep the heartbeat from getting too slow
  • Surgical ablation (Maze procedure): Small scars created during heart surgery to block irregular electrical signals, often used for severe AFib

We use the latest treatments to keep your arrhythmia under control and help your heart stay healthy, strong and steady.

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FAQs

Are arrhythmias dangerous?

Some arrhythmias are harmless, while others can lead to stroke or heart failure. It is important to check with a doctor if you are experiencing an irregular heart rhythm.

What type of doctor treats an arrhythmia?

A cardiac electrophysiologist is a specialist who diagnoses and treats arrhythmias. They are cardiologists with advanced training in the heart’s electrical system. Depending on the type of arrhythmia, you may also see a general cardiologist or a heart failure specialist if your condition affects your heart’s muscle function.

If you're experiencing heart rhythm issues, talk with your primary care doctor or cardiologist so we can get you connected with the right level of care. 
 

Can I live a normal life with an arrhythmia?

Yes, with specialized care in arrhythmia management, people can maintain healthy and active lifestyles.  

What should I do if my heart starts racing?

Stay calm and take slow, deep breaths. If your heart racing comes with dizziness, lightheadedness or shortness of breath, seek medical advice right away.

What are the symptoms of arrhythmia?

Arrhythmia symptoms can be different for each person. You may notice a racing or slow heartbeat, a skipped beat or a fluttering feeling in your chest. Other symptoms can include dizziness, shortness of breath, chest discomfort or fainting. Some people do not have any symptoms and find out they have an arrhythmia during a routine medical visit.

How is an arrhythmia diagnosed?

We use tests like electrocardiograms (EKGs), holter monitors, electrophysiology studies and stress tests to find or confirm an abnormal heart rhythm.

Can arrhythmia go away on its own?

Some arrhythmias come and go without causing problems. Others need treatment to keep the heart in a safe rhythm and prevent complications.

What lifestyle changes can help with arrhythmia?

Eating a heart-healthy diet, exercising regularly, reducing stress and limiting caffeine and alcohol can help keep your heart rhythm steady.

What’s the difference between AFib and other arrhythmias?

Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is the most common arrhythmia. It causes a fast, uneven heartbeat and increases the risk of stroke. Other arrhythmias, like SVT, bradycardia and ventricular tachycardia, affect the heart in different ways but can also cause symptoms and health risks.

What happens if arrhythmia is left untreated?

Some arrhythmias do not cause harm. Others can lead to serious problems like stroke, heart failure, or fainting episodes that increase the risk of falls or injuries.

What are the latest treatments for arrhythmia?

In addition to medications, we offer advanced therapies like catheter ablation, pacemakers, implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) and left atrial appendage closure devices for stroke prevention.

Can I exercise if I have arrhythmia?

Most people with arrhythmia can safely exercise, but it depends on the type of arrhythmia and overall heart function. We provide personalized guidelines for your activity level.

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