Heart Rhythm Center
Vital Heart Rhythm’s dedicated team of experts is experienced in diagnosing and treating adults with all types of heart rhythm disorders (arrhythmia) and is committed to providing exceptional patient care through advanced diagnostic procedures and treatments for arrhythmias.
Vital Heart Rhythm’s team takes a patient-centered, collaborative approach. Our Cardiac EP physicians specialize in and are trained in evaluating and treating heart rhythm abnormalities and their complications, while also working with our other specialists to provide comprehensive care.
Vital Heart Rhythm Cardiac EP Services:
- Atrial Fibrillation (AFIB) Care: AFIB can be a challenging condition to manage. Our expert electrophysiologists specialize in AFIB care, offering solutions that restore rhythm and improve your quality of life.
- Device Implantation and Management: For patients who need pacemakers, implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs), or cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) devices, our skilled team provides seamless implantation and ongoing management to ensure optimal device performance.
- Heart rhythm disorders (arrhythmias): If you have heart rhythm disorders (arrhythmias), doctors may assess whether cardiac ablation, a pacemaker, ICD or other advanced treatment options may be appropriate treatments for your condition.
Request An Appointment With Our Team Today!
What is Electrophysiology?
Electrophysiology is a subspecialty of cardiology that deals with the study and treatment of electrical activities in the heart. Your heart beats because it relies on electrical impulses that stimulate the heart muscles to contract and pump blood throughout your body. If there is any issue with the generation and/or transmission of these electrical impulses, it can result in a malfunctioning of the heartbeat or arrhythmia.
Some of the common methods of electrophysiology include catheter ablation, implantation of pacemakers or defibrillators, and medication management. These treatments aim to prevent and control arrhythmia, ultimately reducing the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other potentially life-threatening conditions.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of cardiac arrhythmia or have been referred to an electrophysiologist by your doctor, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Electrophysiology can play a vital role in the diagnosis, treatment, and long-term management of this condition
Symptoms of Arrhythmia
Arrhythmia, or an abnormal heartbeat, is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide. While many people with arrhythmia experience no symptoms, others may experience a range of unpleasant and sometimes life-threatening issues that can affect their overall health and wellbeing. Some of the most common symptoms of arrhythmia include:
Palpitations
Palpitations refer to the sensation of your heart beating rapidly, irregularly, or with additional “skipped beats.” You might feel as though your heart is racing, fluttering, or pounding in your chest.
Shortness of breath
Shortness of breath is a feeling of difficulty in catching your breath or as if you can’t get enough air in your lungs. This symptom could indicate that your heart isn’t functioning efficiently, as it’s not delivering enough oxygenated blood throughout your body.
Chest discomfort
People with arrhythmia may experience chest pain or discomfort that feels like pressure, squeezing, or fullness.
Lightheadedness or dizziness
Arrhythmia can cause feelings of lightheadedness or dizziness. This symptom may occur when your heart isn’t pumping enough blood to your brain.
Fatigue
Fatigue is a feeling of extreme tiredness or a lack of energy, which could be the result of your heart not functioning properly.
If you experience any of these symptoms or have concerns about your heart health, it’s important to see a medical professional for diagnosis and treatment. An electrophysiologist can work with you to develop an individualized treatment plan that aims to address the underlying cause of your arrhythmia and improve your heart health.
Types of Heart Arrhythmias
Arrhythmia refers to any abnormal heart rhythm that can occur in the atria or the ventricles. There are several types of arrhythmia, each with their own characteristics, effects, and associated risks. Below are some of the most common types of heart arrhythmias:
Atrial fibrillation (AFib)
AFib is an irregular heartbeat that occurs in the atria (upper heart chambers) and is one of the most common arrhythmias. It can cause fatigue, shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness, and an increased risk of stroke.
Ventricular tachycardia (VT)
VT is a rapid heart rate that originates in the ventricles and can be life-threatening. It can cause fainting, chest pain, and shortness of breath.
Bradycardia
Bradycardia is a slow heart rate that occurs when the heart beats less than 60 times per minute. It can lead to fatigue, dizziness, fainting, shortness of breath, and an increased risk of heart failure.
Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT)
SVT is a rapid heart rate that originates in the atria or the atrioventricular (AV) node. It can cause chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, and fainting.
Premature ventricular contractions (PVCs)
PVCs are extra heartbeats that occur in the ventricles and can cause fluttering, skipped beats, chest pain, and sensations of a racing heartbeat.
Atrial flutter
Atrial flutter is a fast and regular heart rate that originates in the atria. It can cause symptoms similar to AFib, including fatigue, shortness of breath, and chest pain.
At Vital Heart & Vein, our team of experts understands the complexities of heart arrhythmias and how they can impact your overall health and wellbeing. We specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of all types of arrhythmias, using the latest technology and techniques to deliver personalized care that aims to get you back to a healthier heart rhythm.
Heart Screenings & Diagnostic Testing
At Vital Heart & Vein, we believe that prevention is key to maintaining your heart health. Regular screenings and diagnostic testing can help to identify potential heart issues early on, allowing for timely treatment and management.
Here are some of the heart screenings and diagnostic testing options we offer:
Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG)
An EKG is a painless test that measures your heart’s electrical activity. It can be used to diagnose various heart conditions, including arrhythmia and heart attack.
Echocardiogram
An echocardiogram uses sound waves to create a detailed image of your heart’s structure and function. It can help to diagnose heart valve issues, heart failure, and other heart conditions.
Stress tests
Stress tests involve monitoring your heart’s activity while you exercise or undergo other forms of physical stress. They can help to diagnose coronary artery disease and other conditions that affect your heart’s ability to function during physical exertion.
Holter monitor
A holter monitor is a portable device that you wear to monitor your heart’s activity over an extended period, usually 24-48 hours. It can help to diagnose arrhythmia and other heart conditions that may occur infrequently.
Cardiac MRI
A cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create an image of your heart. It can help to diagnose various heart conditions, including heart valve issues, heart tumors, and congenital heart defects.
Our experienced team of cardiac specialists will work with you to determine which tests and screenings are most appropriate for your individual needs. We use state-of-the-art technology and equipment to ensure accurate diagnoses and the most effective treatment plans. Don’t wait until you experience symptoms; schedule a heart screening with Vital Heart & Vein today to take the first step in prioritizing your heart health.
Heart Arrhythmia Treatments
At Vital Heart & Vein, we offer a range of treatment options for heart arrhythmias. Our goal is to provide you with personalized care that effectively manages your symptoms and reduces your risk of complications.
Here are some of the heart arrhythmia treatments we offer:
Medications
Certain medications can help to manage heart arrhythmia symptoms by regulating your heart rate and rhythm. Your healthcare provider will work with you to determine which medication is most appropriate for your individual needs and may adjust your dosage over time.
Cardioversion
Cardioversion is a procedure that uses electrical shocks to reset your heart’s rhythm. It may be used to treat atrial fibrillation and other types of arrhythmia.
Catheter ablation
Catheter ablation is a minimally invasive procedure that uses radiofrequency energy to destroy small areas of heart tissue that are causing arrhythmia. It can be an effective treatment option for certain types of arrhythmia, including atrial fibrillation.
Implantable devices
Implantable devices, such as pacemakers and defibrillators, can help to regulate your heart’s rhythm. Pacemakers are used to treat bradycardia (slow heart rate), while defibrillators are used to treat ventricular tachycardia and fibrillation.
Lifestyle changes
Making lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, managing stress, and maintaining a healthy weight, can help to reduce your risk of heart arrhythmias and improve your overall heart health.
Our experienced team of cardiac specialists will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific heart arrhythmia and individual needs. We use the latest technology and techniques to provide you with the most effective and minimally invasive treatments. Contact Vital Heart & Vein today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a healthier heart.