Arrhythmia and Device Center

Consider a visit if you often feel palpitations, your heartbeat feels irregular, too fast, or too slow, you feel dizzy or close to fainting, or you have fainted without a clear cause. Patients already diagnosed with atrial fibrillation or living with a pacemaker can also come for further evaluation. If symptoms come with chest pain, severe shortness of breath, or repeated fainting, seek emergency care right away.

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and medications, then perform a physical exam and an ECG. Depending on your symptoms, your doctor may order blood tests such as electrolytes and thyroid function, an echocardiogram, or Holter monitoring for one to several days. If the arrhythmia appears rarely, an implantable loop recorder may be considered. An electrophysiology study is usually done when needed to confirm the source of the arrhythmia or as part of ablation.

Bring your ID, a list of the medications you take, and previous test results such as ECG tracings, Holter results, echocardiograms, and a referral letter if you have one. Heart rate recordings from a smartwatch or phone taken during symptoms can also help, although they still need to be confirmed with an ECG. If you have a pacemaker, ICD, or other device, bring your device ID card. Also note when your symptoms start and how long they last.

Treatment depends on the type of arrhythmia, your symptoms, and your heart condition. Some arrhythmias only need monitoring or can be managed with lifestyle changes and medication. Certain arrhythmias, such as supraventricular tachycardia or atrial fibrillation, can be treated with ablation. A heartbeat that is too slow is generally treated with a pacemaker, while patients at risk of dangerous arrhythmias may need an ICD. Your doctor recommends the right option after an evaluation and discusses it with you before any procedure.

Many patients go home within one to two days after ablation or device implantation, depending on their condition and the type of procedure. After a device with leads is implanted, arm movement on the device side is usually limited for a few weeks so the leads stay in place. After ablation, your doctor may ask you to keep taking certain medications during recovery. Your follow-up schedule and device checks will be explained before you go home.

Many patients return to daily activities after the recovery period. Phones and household appliances are generally safe to use, as long as you keep your phone away from the device site. Tell staff before passing through security scanners or undergoing certain medical tests, and show your device card. Rules for driving, exercise, and work depend on your device type and condition, so discuss them with your doctor at follow-up visits.