What is a tachyarrhythmia?
A tachyarrhythmia is an abnormally fast heart rhythm. The heart’s electrical signals control when its chambers contract; a disturbance in those signals can cause a rhythm problem.
A fast pulse alone does not identify the cause. Heart rate can rise normally during exercise, while a persistent or unexplained change may need medical assessment. Some rhythm problems cause few or no symptoms.
Symptoms people may notice
Symptoms can include a racing or fluttering heartbeat, palpitations, dizziness, lightheadedness, breathlessness, chest discomfort or fainting. An ECG or other rhythm recording may be needed to understand what is happening.
- A racing, pounding or irregular heartbeat
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Shortness of breath
- Chest discomfort or fainting
Atrial fibrillation
Atrial fibrillation, often called AF, occurs when electrical activity in the upper heart chambers becomes disorganised. The resulting heartbeat is irregular and may be fast.
AF is associated with an increased risk of stroke. Assessment includes consideration of symptoms, heart rate and rhythm, and whether treatment to reduce stroke risk is needed. The plan depends on the individual patient.
Ventricular tachycardia
Ventricular tachycardia, or VT, is a fast abnormal rhythm that starts in the lower chambers of the heart. It can affect how effectively the heart pumps blood and may be life-threatening.
An ECG helps identify the rhythm. Assessment also considers possible underlying heart disease and other contributing factors. VT and ventricular fibrillation are distinct rhythm disorders.
Assessment and treatment options
Your cardiologist will review your symptoms, medical history and rhythm recordings. Treatment aims to address the particular rhythm and its risks rather than simply lowering the pulse.
Depending on the diagnosis, options may include medicines, a rhythm-restoring procedure, catheter ablation or an implantable device. Dr. Aman Makhija’s profile describes a background in electrophysiology and heart rhythm care.
YOUR QUESTIONS
A little more clarity.
Can a rhythm problem occur without symptoms?
Yes. Some rhythm disturbances are found during an examination or heart rhythm recording. Symptoms alone cannot confirm or exclude a particular arrhythmia.
Are atrial fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia the same?
No. AF starts in the upper chambers and produces an irregular rhythm. VT starts in the lower chambers and can be particularly dangerous. They require different assessment and treatment plans.
Is ablation suitable for every fast heartbeat?
No. The type of rhythm, underlying cause and individual circumstances determine whether ablation or another approach is appropriate.