Introduction
An arrhythmia is a heart rhythm that is too fast, too slow or irregular. The right treatment depends on the exact rhythm, your symptoms and what matters to you.
Key points
- A clear diagnosis should come before a treatment decision.
- The same condition can affect people very differently.
- Treatment may involve reassurance, medication or a procedure.
Conditions list
- Atrial fibrillation — An irregular rhythm from the upper chambers of the heart.
- Atrial flutter — A fast, more organised rhythm from the upper chambers.
- Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) — Sudden episodes of fast heartbeat that start above the ventricles.
- Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome — An extra electrical pathway that can trigger fast heart rhythms.
- Ectopic beats — Extra beats that can feel like a skip, thump or flutter.
- Blackouts and syncope — Short losses of consciousness that need a careful explanation.
- Heart failure — When the heart needs support to pump blood around the body effectively.
- Bradycardia — A slow heart rate that may be normal or may need assessment.
- Heart block — A delay or interruption in the heart’s electrical pathways.
- Ventricular arrhythmias — Rhythms that start in the lower pumping chambers.
- Inherited rhythm disorders — Electrical conditions that can run in families.
Patient note
A rhythm diagnosis should not automatically mean treatment. The first question is always what the rhythm means for you.
Questions about heart rhythm conditions
What rhythm has been found? Is it likely to be important? What are the benefits and downsides of treating it now?
FAQ
What is atrial fibrillation?
Atrial fibrillation is an irregular rhythm from the upper chambers of the heart. It can cause palpitations, breathlessness or tiredness.
Are ectopic beats dangerous?
Extra beats are common and are often harmless, but the pattern and your wider heart health should be considered.