A Guide to Arrhythmias – Types, Symptoms and When to See a Specialist
A Guide to Arrhythmias
An arrhythmia is an abnormal heart rhythm. While some arrhythmias are harmless, others require treatment to prevent complications.
What is an Arrhythmia?
Arrhythmias occur when the heart’s electrical signals become irregular, causing the heart to beat too fast, too slow, or unevenly.
Types of Arrhythmia
- Atrial Fibrillation (AF): A rapid and irregular heartbeat, common in older adults.
- Bradycardia: A slower-than-normal heart rate.
- Tachycardia: A faster-than-normal heart rate.
- Ventricular Fibrillation: A severe arrhythmia that can cause sudden cardiac arrest.
Symptoms of Arrhythmia
- Palpitations: Feeling like your heart is racing or fluttering.
- Dizziness or Lightheadedness
- Shortness of Breath
- Fatigue
Woman experiencing symptoms of arrhythmia
When to See a Specialist
If you experience persistent palpitations, chest discomfort, or fainting, it’s essential to consult a cardiologist to rule out serious conditions.
How Monash Heart Private Can Help
Monash Heart Private provides advanced diagnostics and treatment options for arrhythmias, including electrophysiology studies and catheter ablation. Our cardiologists collaborate with GPs to ensure that patients receive timely care and effective management for any type of arrhythmia.
Medical examination of the heart.
Contact Monash Heart Private for Rapid Cardiac Care
Monash Heart Private provides fast, direct pathways for cardiac care, ensuring patients receive specialised attention without delay. With flexible referral options for both urgent and non-urgent cases, we streamline access to high-quality cardiac care in partnership with the Victorian Heart Hospital (VHH).
- Emergency Department Referrals: For urgent cases, GPs can refer patients directly to the VHH Cardiac Emergency Department, providing immediate, no-cost access to critical care. If further treatment is needed, patients are seamlessly transitioned to Monash Heart Private for private specialist follow-up and procedures.
- Direct Specialist Referrals: For non-emergency cases, GPs can refer patients directly to Monash Heart Private’s cardiologists, giving patients fast access to Australia’s top heart specialists in a state-of-the-art setting.
Visit our directory to find a specialist.
Private room with ensuite at Monash Heart Private
Additional Resources
For more information on heart health, here are a few trusted Australian resources:
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- Heart Foundation Australia: Provides comprehensive information on heart conditions, treatment options, and support resources for patients and families. Heart Foundation
- Cardiac Society of Australia and New Zealand (CSANZ): Offers guidelines and resources on cardiac procedures and treatments relevant to patients. CSANZ
- Australian Government Department of Health – Heart Disease: Contains information on heart disease prevention, treatments, and national health initiatives. Department of Health
- Beyond Blue – Mental Health Support for Chronic Illness: Provides mental health support and resources for individuals coping with chronic conditions like heart disease. Beyond Blue
