The term arrhythmias refers to any irregularity in the way the heart beats. A healthy heart beats in a steady, coordinated rhythm, but with an arrhythmia, the heartbeat may become too fast, too slow, or uneven. Some arrhythmias are harmless and barely noticeable, while others may cause symptoms that need medical assessment.

Many patients come to us concerned about unusual heart rhythms or sensations such as palpitations, fluttering, or pauses. Understanding what arrhythmias are and what they might mean is an important step in recognising when to seek help.

What Are Arrhythmias?

An arrhythmia is essentially a fault in the electrical system of the heart. The heart relies on electrical signals to control the timing of each heartbeat. If these signals are disrupted, the rhythm can become irregular. Arrhythmias can occur in short bursts or continue for longer periods. They may appear during activity, at rest, or even during sleep. Some people feel them clearly, while others have no symptoms at all and only discover them during routine tests.

Types of Arrhythmias

There are several types of arrhythmias, each affecting the heart differently. The most common include:

Atrial fibrillation (AF)
AF is one of the most frequent arrhythmias. Instead of beating in a steady rhythm, the upper chambers of the heart quiver rapidly. This can cause an irregular heartbeat and increase the risk of stroke if left untreated.

Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT)
SVT is a condition where sudden bursts of fast heartbeats arise from the upper part of the heart. These episodes often start and stop abruptly and may cause palpitations or dizziness.

Bradycardia
This is when the heart beats more slowly than normal. While a low heart rate can be healthy in fit individuals, bradycardia may require attention if it leads to symptoms such as fatigue or fainting.

Ectopic beats
These are extra or skipped beats that many people experience occasionally. They often feel like a brief pause followed by a stronger thump. Most ectopic beats are harmless, but frequent ones should be evaluated.

Ventricular arrhythmias
These originate in the lower chambers of the heart. They can sometimes be more serious and often require urgent or specialist assessment.

What Do Arrhythmias Feel Like?

Symptoms vary based on the type of arrhythmia and the individual. Some people are very aware of rhythm changes, while others notice nothing at all. Common sensations include:

• A fluttering feeling in the chest
• Irregular or skipped beats
• A rapid pounding heartbeat
• A slow or delayed heartbeat
• Brief episodes of dizziness or light-headedness
• Shortness of breath or chest discomfort

Even mild symptoms can feel unsettling, but they do not always indicate something serious.

What Causes Arrhythmias?

Arrhythmias can be triggered by a wide range of factors. These include:

• High blood pressure or coronary artery disease
• Problems with the heart valves or muscle
• Thyroid disorders
• Electrolyte imbalances
• Stress, anxiety, or excessive caffeine
• Alcohol intake
• Certain medications
• Infection or fever

Some people develop arrhythmias because of inherited conditions, while others experience rhythm changes as part of the natural ageing process.

When Should You Be Concerned About Arrhythmias?

Although many arrhythmias are harmless, some require medical attention. You should seek help if you experience:

• Frequent or persistent palpitations
• Irregular heartbeats accompanied by dizziness
• Shortness of breath or chest discomfort
• Fainting or feeling close to fainting
• A racing heartbeat that lasts longer than a few minutes

Any arrhythmia linked with chest pain, collapse, or severe breathlessness should be treated as a medical emergency. If your symptoms are less urgent but still concerning, you can 01892 526726 to arrange an assessment at our clinic in Tunbridge Wells.

How Arrhythmias Are Diagnosed

Arrhythmias are diagnosed through a combination of discussion, examination, and testing. The first step is understanding your symptoms and when they occur. A cardiologist may then recommend some of these tests

ECG (Electrocardiogram)
This quick test captures the heart’s electrical activity and can identify abnormal rhythms.

24 hour or 7 day ECG monitoring
Wearing a portable monitor helps detect intermittent arrhythmias that may not appear during a short ECG.

Echocardiogram
An ultrasound scan that checks the structure and pumping function of the heart.

Blood tests
These can identify thyroid problems or electrolyte imbalances that may contribute to rhythm disturbances.

Further tests may be recommended depending on the results.

Treatment and Management

Treatment depends on the type of arrhythmia and whether it is causing symptoms or increasing the risk of complications. Many arrhythmias need no specific treatment beyond lifestyle adjustments such as reducing caffeine, limiting alcohol, managing stress, and improving sleep. For arrhythmias that require medical intervention, treatment options may include medication to control the heart rate or rhythm, blood thinners to reduce stroke risk, or procedures such as catheter ablation for certain rhythm disorders.

WKCP gives treatment plans to each patient, focusing on long-term heart health and symptom control.

Conclusion

Arrhythmias are irregular heart rhythms that range from harmless to potentially serious. Recognising the symptoms, understanding the possible causes, and seeking timely advice can provide reassurance and protect long-term heart health. If you are experiencing palpitations, irregular heartbeats, or simply want clarity about your symptoms, you can contact us here to arrange a consultation. Our team provides clear explanations, accurate diagnosis, and personalised treatment for patients across Kent and East Sussex. For more information on arrhythmias here are some other websites that do a good job of explaining what it is What Is an Arrhythmia? and Heart arrhythmia – Symptoms and causes