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Up to 5% of people have an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia). If your heartbeat is fluttering, racing, or pounding, see the experts at The Joseph P. Addabbo Family Health Center in Arverne, Far Rockaway, and Jamaica, Queens, and another in the Red Hook neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York. They screen for arrhythmias and offer treatment when necessary to avoid heart-related complications. Schedule an in-person or telehealth evaluation by calling the nearest New York City office or booking online today.
Arrhythmia Q & A
What is an irregular heartbeat?
An irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia) occurs when your heart beats abnormally. It might beat too fast, too slow, or cause fluttering in your chest. Some arrhythmias are harmless, while others may indicate a medical problem that requires intervention to prevent serious complications. Atrial fibrillation is the most common type of arrhythmia in the United States.
Which symptoms could indicate an irregular heartbeat?
An irregular heartbeat may contribute to:
- Dizziness
- Chest discomfort
- Racing or pounding heartbeat
- Shortness of breath
- Weakness
- Fatigue
- Fainting
- Slowed heartbeat
- Fast heartbeat
- Fluttering in your chest
- Sweating
You might feel anxious because of an irregular heartbeat. See your provider as soon as possible to learn if your arrhythmia requires medical attention to help prevent complications.
What are the risk factors for arrhythmia?
Risk factors for arrhythmias include:
- High blood pressure
- Coronary artery disease (CAD)
- Heart valve disorders
- Genetics
- Family history of irregular heartbeats
- Electrolyte imbalances
- Heart muscle changes
- Previous heart attack or heart surgery
- Smoking
- Alcohol consumption
- Drug use
- Caffeine and other stimulants
- High blood sugar
- Sleep disorders
- High body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher
- Congenital heart defects
- Thyroid disease
- Some medications and dietary supplements
Arrhythmias can sometimes contribute to a weak heart muscle, blood clots, heart failure, stroke, or even sudden cardiac death.
How is arrhythmia diagnosed?
Diagnosing an irregular heartbeat at The Joseph P. Addabbo Family Health Center requires a review of your symptoms and medical history, checking vital signs, and a physical exam.
Your specialist listens to your heartbeat and may complete blood testing, an electrocardiogram (EKG), stress testing, an echocardiogram, or additional heart function tests or imaging procedures.
How is an irregular heartbeat treated?
Your personalized arrhythmia treatment may include one or more of the following:
- Watchful waiting
- Lifestyle changes
- Therapies
- Medications
- Medical device
- Surgery
The skilled cardiologists at The Joseph P. Addabbo Family Health Center tailor a plan that helps stabilize your heartbeat and minimize the risk of heart-related complications.
It’s helpful to manage your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar. Avoid tobacco products, minimize or avoid alcohol, and cut back on or avoid caffeine and other stimulants.
Aim to maintain a healthy body weight, eat nutritious foods, stay active, and manage stress. If you have sleep apnea, seek treatment to reduce your chance of arrhythmias.
Schedule an evaluation for an irregular heartbeat at The Joseph P. Addabbo Family Health Center by calling the office or booking an in-person or telehealth appointment online today.