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Arrhythmia Specialist

Good Heart Medical Group, Inc.

Board Certified Cardiologist & Interventional Cardiology located in Santa Ana, CA & Garden Grove, CA

An arrhythmia is a condition that occurs when you experience an irregular heartbeat. At Good Heart Medical Group, Inc., Amer Zarka, MD, and his team offer both surgical and non-surgical treatment for heart arrhythmias. Located in Santa Ana and Garden Grove, California, the practice specializes in comprehensive, evidence-based cardiology. To schedule your visit, call one of the offices or book your appointment online today.

Arrhythmia Q & A

What is an arrhythmia?

Arrhythmia refers to a problem with the rhythm of your heart. 

A series of electrical impulses control your heartbeat, allowing your heart to pump blood throughout your body. When these impulses don’t work properly, it can cause your heart to beat too fast (tachycardia) or too slow (bradycardia). 

Arrhythmias can occur in both the upper (atria) and lower (ventricles) chambers of the heart. 

What causes arrhythmias?

Several underlying problems cause arrhythmias, including:

  • Heart attack
  • Coronary artery disease
  • High blood pressure
  • Hyperthyroidism
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Diabetes
  • Sleep apnea

In many cases, arrhythmias occur with damage or disease to your heart. Certain lifestyle factors like smoking, stress, or drinking too much caffeine can also increase your risk of arrhythmia. 

What are the symptoms of an arrhythmia?

Symptoms of arrhythmia include:

  • Fatigue
  • Chest pain
  • Fluttering in the chest
  • A racing or slowed heartbeat
  • Shortness of breath
  • Dizziness
  • Fainting

Not everyone with arrhythmia will experience symptoms. In many cases, arrhythmias are detected during routine physical exams before symptoms emerge. 

If you experience premature heartbeats or feel like your heart is beating too fast or too slow, book an appointment at Good Heart Medical Group, Inc. Although some are harmless, certain arrhythmias can lead to life-threatening complications like a stroke or heart failure. 

What treatments are available?

Treatment depends on the type and severity of your arrhythmia. If your condition is mild and poses no threat to your heart health, treatment might not be necessary. To determine the severity of your arrhythmia, your cardiologist performs a thorough examination. 

Good Heart Medical Group, Inc., offers many advanced diagnostics, including echocardiograms, stress tests, and Holter monitoring to identify the underlying reason for your arrhythmia. After your examination, your doctor works with you to determine the most effective treatment. 

In addition to lifestyle changes like quitting smoking and maintaining a healthy weight, your doctor may recommend several treatments like:

  • Medication
  • Vagal maneuvers
  • Cardioversion
  • Catheter ablation
  • Pacemaker
  • Coronary bypass surgery

With the right treatment, you can eliminate your symptoms and improve your heart health. To speak with a cardiologist about your irregular heartbeat, book an appointment at Good Heart Medical Group, Inc., by phone or schedule online today.