Cardiology Department for Arrhythmia Treatment

When experiencing irregular heartbeats or arrhythmia, patients should visit the cardiology department. Arrhythmias can manifest in various forms and require specialized care depending on the specific condition.

Common Types of Arrhythmia

1. Paroxysmal Supraventricular Tachycardia (PSVT)

This condition is characterized by sudden episodes of rapid heartbeat, often exceeding 160 beats per minute, followed by abrupt termination. It typically results from an extra electrical pathway in the heart, particularly near the atrioventricular (AV) node. Patients experiencing PSVT should seek consultation with a cardiologist for proper diagnosis and potential treatment options such as catheter ablation.

2. Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) and Atrial Flutter

These types of arrhythmias involve irregular and often rapid heartbeats caused by chaotic electrical signals in the atria. Conditions such as hypertension, coronary artery disease, hyperthyroidism, or other heart-related issues can contribute to the development of AFib or atrial flutter. Cardiologists are trained to manage these conditions through medication, cardioversion, or interventional procedures when necessary.

3. Bradycardia and Conduction Disorders

Bradycardia refers to a slower than normal heart rate, which can result from conditions like first-degree, second-degree, or third-degree atrioventricular block, as well as left or right bundle branch block. These disorders affect the heart's ability to maintain a regular rhythm and are typically managed within the field of cardiology.

Treatment Approaches for Arrhythmia

The treatment of arrhythmias varies significantly depending on whether the condition involves a rapid or slow heart rate. For example, in the case of PSVT caused by dual pathways in the AV node, radiofrequency ablation may be used to eliminate the abnormal electrical pathway and restore normal heart rhythm.

On the other hand, patients with slow heart rhythms such as sick sinus syndrome or long-standing third-degree AV block may be at risk for serious cardiac events. In such cases, cardiologists may recommend the implantation of a pacemaker to maintain a stable and healthy heart rate. These interventions are performed by specialists in the cardiovascular and internal medicine departments.