Arrhythmia
Arrhythmia
The heart relies on a steady electrical system to maintain a regular rhythm, ensuring efficient blood circulation throughout the body. However, when these electrical impulses misfire, an arrhythmia can occur.
While some arrhythmias may cause no symptoms and require no treatment, others can increase the risk of stroke, heart failure, or cardiac arrest. Arrhythmias can affect people of all ages, but they are more common as we age and may be associated with underlying health conditions such as high blood pressure or heart disease.
Arrhythmias are a significant public health concern in Australia. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW), atrial fibrillation (AF)—the most common type of arrhythmia—affects around 2% of the Australian population (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 2020). AF incidence increases with age, affecting approximately 1 in 10 people over the age of 75 (NHS, 2025). This condition also contributes to 6% of all strokes in Australia (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 2021). The increasing rates of obesity, hypertension and an aging population mean that arrhythmia-related cases are expected to rise, placing a heavier burden on healthcare systems in the coming decades.
Approach
We are committed to providing accessible, affordable, and high-quality care with empathy.
Experts
With over 20 specialists, you can count on us to keep you and your loved ones safe and healthy.
Technology
Our clinics are equipped with advanced systems, enabling us to safely and efficiently access your records, results and investigations.
Facilities
Our facilities offer modern diagnostics, centralised patient records, streamlined booking, and compassionate, efficient care for all.
Things you want to know
Arrhythmias can manifest with a variety of symptoms, or sometimes none at all. Common symptoms include:
- Palpitations (feeling of fluttering or pounding heart)
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Chest pain
- Fainting or near fainting
- Some patients may only discover they have arrhythmia during a routine examination.
- Syncope or loss of consciousness.
Arrhythmias can arise from multiple factors, such as:
- Coronary artery disease or heart attack
- Valvular heart disease
- High blood pressure
- Electrolyte imbalances (e.g., potassium, calcium)
- Heart defects present at birth
- Stress or excessive caffeine/alcohol consumption
- Smoking
- Certain medications
- Thyroid disorders
- Aging and genetic predisposition also play a role in increasing arrhythmia risk.
To diagnose an arrhythmia, doctors may use several tests, including:
- Electrocardiogram (ECG): Records the electrical signals of the heart and detects irregularities in rhythm. It also provides a general overview of the electrical pathways in the heart.
- Holter Monitor: A portable ECG that monitors the heart’s activity for 24 to 48 hours.
- Event Monitor: Similar to a Holter monitor but used for longer periods, such as 28 days.
- Echocardiogram: Uses ultrasound waves to produce images of the heart to detect structural abnormalities.
- Stress Test: Monitors the heart’s activity during physical exertion.
- Electrophysiology Study (EPS): An invasive test that maps the heart’s electrical signals.
Most arrhythmias do not have any long-term consequences. However, some arrhythmias, if left untreated, can lead to serious complications, including:
- Stroke: Blood clots can form in the heart and travel to the brain.
- Heart failure: Prolonged irregular heart rhythms can weaken the heart, reducing its ability to pump blood effectively.
- Cardiac arrest: A life-threatening emergency where the heart suddenly stops beating.
Treatment depends on the type and severity of the arrhythmia. Common treatment options include:
- Lifestyle changes: Reducing stress, caffeine, and alcohol, as well as quitting smoking.
- Medications: Antiarrhythmic drugs help control heart rate or rhythm.
- Electrical cardioversion: Uses controlled electric shocks to restore a normal heart rhythm.
- Ablation therapy: A procedure that destroys the abnormal electrical pathways causing the arrhythmia.
- Implantable devices: Pacemakers or implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) help regulate heart rhythm.
- Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct structural heart issues.
Commonly Asked Questions
Most arrhythmias are harmless, but others can increase the risk of serious complications like stroke or heart failure. It’s essential to consult a cardiologist for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Yes, high levels of stress or anxiety can trigger or worsen arrhythmias. Managing stress through lifestyle changes or therapy can reduce the risk.
In some cases, arrhythmias may resolve without treatment, particularly if caused by temporary factors like electrolyte imbalances. However, persistent arrhythmias usually require medical intervention.
A pacemaker helps control slow heart rhythms, while an ICD can both pace the heart and deliver shocks to correct life-threatening fast rhythms.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle such as eating well, exercising, managing blood pressure, and avoiding excessive alcohol or caffeine, can reduce your risk of developing arrhythmia.
