Heart rhythm disorders can cause a sensation of a racing, pounding or fluttering heartbeat, known as palpitations. Other symptoms may include dizziness, lightheadedness, weakness, shortness of breath, chest discomfort or fainting. Some arrhythmias cause no noticeable symptoms and may be detected during a routine examination or ECG. Symptoms can vary depending on whether the heart is beating too quickly, too slowly or irregularly. New, severe or persistent symptoms should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Diagnosis usually begins with a review of symptoms and medical history, followed by a physical examination. An ECG can record the heart's electrical activity and identify certain rhythm abnormalities. If an arrhythmia does not occur during a routine ECG, a doctor may recommend a Holter monitor, event recorder or another form of prolonged heart monitoring. An echocardiogram can assess heart structure and function. In selected patients, an electrophysiology study may be performed to identify the source of an abnormal rhythm and guide treatment.

Catheter ablation may be recommended when an arrhythmia is likely to respond well to the procedure, when medicines do not control the rhythm adequately or when medicines cause significant side effects. It may also be considered for certain arrhythmias as an early treatment. During the procedure, catheters are guided through a blood vessel to the heart, where heat or extreme cold is used to create small areas of scar tissue that block abnormal electrical signals.

A pacemaker helps maintain an appropriate heart rate when the heart beats too slowly. It delivers electrical impulses to support a regular rhythm. An implantable cardioverter-defibrillator, or ICD, continuously monitors the heart and can deliver an electrical shock when it detects a dangerous abnormal rhythm. ICDs may be recommended for people who have survived cardiac arrest or who have a high risk of life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias. The choice of device depends on the specific rhythm disorder and the patient's risk profile.

Yes. Many arrhythmias can be diagnosed and treated without traditional open-heart surgery. Depending on the condition, treatment may include medicines, electrical cardioversion, catheter ablation or implanted devices such as pacemakers and ICDs. Catheter ablation uses thin tubes inserted through a blood vessel to reach the heart and treat the area causing abnormal electrical signals. The appropriate treatment depends on the type of arrhythmia, symptoms, underlying heart condition and response to previous treatment.

An electrophysiology procedure is performed in a hospital or specialised clinical setting. Before an EP study or ablation, your doctor will review your medical history and medicines and explain any preparation required. The procedure involves guiding thin catheters through a blood vessel, usually from the groin, to the heart. Sedation or anaesthesia may be used depending on the procedure. Your doctor will also explain potential benefits, risks, recovery and whether you need to temporarily change any medicines before treatment.