Don’t ignore irregular heart rhythm disorders, says Dr Rajat Sharma

Chandigarh, September 28, 2022: Heart rhythm disorders are fairly common and often harmless, but can be fatal occasionally. These defects occur due to abnormalities in the electrical system of the heart or the heart muscle. Early detection and appropriate treatment are the key to a healthy life for people suffering from heart rhythm disorders. Dr Rajat Sharma, Cardiac Electrophysiologist, Fortis Hospital Mohali, explains how to safeguard oneself from heart rhythm-related symptoms.

What is a heart rhythm disorder?
Heart rhythm disorders -- commonly termed as ‘Cardiac Arrhythmia’ -- are due to abnormalities in the electrical activities of the heart. Abnormal electrical activities of the heart’s electrical wirings, heart muscles or the natural pacemakers cause heart rhythm ailments. Such defects not only affect adults, but children, too. The two most life-threatening rhythm disorders are Atrial Fibrillation (AF) and Sudden Cardiac Death (SCD).

Signs & symptoms
Irregular heartbeat causing palpitations, heart racing, skipped beats or irregular heartbeats, dizziness, fainting, extreme fatigue or tiredness, shortness of breath and sometimes, discomfort or a feeling of pressure in the chest. “Excessive electrical activities from the heart chambers can cause strokes or sudden cardiac death. Patients should be careful is symptoms appear,” added Dr Sharma.

Treatment options
Several treatment options for heart rhythm disorders such as Cardiac Implantable Electronic Device (CIED) or pacemakers, and defibrillators or HF devices called Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy (CRT) implantations are available. Remote and heart rhythm monitoring is also helpful in detecting infrequent arrhythmias.

Prevention is better than cure
Discussing measures to prevent heart rhythm disorders, Dr Sharma, said, “One should ensure to lead a healthy lifestyle. This includes consuming a balanced diet, performing yoga or practicing meditation, and regular physical activity. This helps keep a person active and maintains heart health.”  

About Fortis Healthcare

Fortis Healthcare Limited – an IHH Healthcare Berhad Company – is a leading integrated healthcare services provider in India. It is one of the largest healthcare organizations in the country with 27 healthcare facilities (including projects under development), 4100 operational beds and over 419 diagnostics centres (including JVs). Fortis is present in India, United Arab Emirates (UAE) & Sri Lanka. The Company is listed on the BSE Ltd and National Stock Exchange (NSE) of India. It draws strength from its partnership with global major and parent company, IHH, to build upon its culture of world-class patient care and superlative clinical excellence. Fortis employs 23,000 people (including SRL) who share its vision of becoming the world’s most trusted healthcare network. Fortis offers a full spectrum of integrated healthcare services ranging from clinics to quaternary care facilities and a wide range of ancillary services.