Key Pointers:
- “Arrhythmia” means an irregular heartbeat that may be too fast, too slow, or uneven.
- Some types, like supraventricular tachycardia (SVT), can often be cured.
- Others, such as atrial fibrillation, are managed long-term with treatment and lifestyle care.
- Treatment options include medication, catheter ablation, and heart rhythm monitoring.
- Regular follow-ups with a cardiologist in Singapore help maintain rhythm control and reduce risk.
What exactly is a heart arrhythmia?
An arrhythmia occurs when the heart’s electrical system doesn’t work in a perfectly coordinated way. This can cause the heart to beat irregularly, either too quickly, too slowly, or inconsistently.
Common types include:
- Atrial fibrillation (AF): the most frequent sustained rhythm disorder, often linked to age or high blood pressure.
- Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT): episodes of very fast heart rate that start above the ventricles.
- Premature ventricular contractions (PVCs): extra beats that feel like skipped or “flopping” beats.
- Bradycardia: abnormally slow heart rate, sometimes due to electrical blockages.
Can arrhythmia be cured, or only controlled?
Whether an arrhythmia can be “cured” depends on its cause and type:
- Often curable: SVT and some accessory-pathway arrhythmias can be permanently corrected using catheter ablation, which destroys the small area of tissue causing abnormal signals.
- Usually managed: Atrial fibrillation, PVCs, and bradycardia are typically controlled rather than cured. With consistent treatment, symptoms can be minimised, and stroke or heart-failure risk reduced.
- Secondary arrhythmias: If an arrhythmia stems from another problem, such as thyroid imbalance or medication side effects, treating the underlying issue can resolve it.
What treatments do cardiologists in Singapore recommend?
Your cardiologist will tailor treatment based on rhythm type, symptom severity, and overall heart function. Common options include:
- Medication: Anti-arrhythmic drugs or beta-blockers help stabilise heart rhythm and rate.
- Catheter ablation: A minimally invasive procedure guided by electrophysiology mapping to pinpoint and treat abnormal pathways.
- Pacemaker or implantable defibrillator: For persistent slow or dangerous rhythms.
- Anticoagulants: For atrial fibrillation to prevent stroke.
- Lifestyle management: Reducing caffeine, avoiding excessive alcohol, and managing stress and blood pressure.
Your doctor may also suggest an echocardiogram or Holter monitor to evaluate how your heart rhythm behaves over time.
Is arrhythmia dangerous if left untreated?
Some arrhythmias are harmless, but others can lead to serious complications such as heart failure, fainting spells, or stroke, especially in atrial fibrillation. Even if symptoms are mild, it’s important to get checked early.
Warning signs include:
- Palpitations or fluttering in the chest
- Dizziness or fainting
- Shortness of breath
- Chest discomfort or fatigue
Early diagnosis helps determine if the arrhythmia is benign or requires intervention.
Can lifestyle changes really make a difference?
Yes. While medical therapy remains central, daily habits play a major role in rhythm stability. Cardiologists often recommend:
- Maintaining a healthy weight and regular exercise routine
- Limiting caffeine and alcohol
- Managing stress through relaxation or breathing exercises
- Controlling chronic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and sleep apnea
These steps support electrical stability of the heart and may reduce the frequency of irregular beats.
5 Common Questions About Arrhythmia Treatment and Care
1. Can arrhythmia go away on its own? Occasional skipped beats can be harmless, but persistent or worsening irregularities should be assessed by a cardiologist.
2. Is catheter ablation safe? It is a well-established procedure performed under controlled conditions, using imaging and mapping to guide precision treatment.
3. Do I need lifelong medication? Some patients require long-term medication; others may reduce or stop after ablation or rhythm stabilisation, only under medical supervision.
4. Can stress or lack of sleep cause arrhythmia? Stress, poor sleep, and stimulants like caffeine can trigger episodes or make existing arrhythmias more frequent.
5. How often should I have follow-ups? Regular reviews, usually every 6–12 months or as advised, help monitor rhythm, adjust medication, and ensure ongoing heart health.
Key Pointers Recap:
- Certain arrhythmias can be cured; others are best managed long-term.
- Catheter ablation, medication, and monitoring are key treatments.
- Atrial fibrillation and SVT are among the most common rhythm issues.
- Early diagnosis and lifestyle care improve quality of life and outcomes.
- Follow-up with a cardiologist in Singapore is essential for rhythm stability.
Regain Your Rhythm, Book a Heart Evaluation at Forte Cardiology Clinic
If you’ve been feeling palpitations, irregular heartbeats, or unexplained dizziness, it may be time for a heart rhythm check. At Forte Cardiology Clinic , we offer ECGs, echocardiograms, Holter monitoring, and electrophysiology assessments to help diagnose and manage arrhythmia effectively.
