Arrhythmia Care to Help Your Heart Beat Steady
You may notice a flutter in your chest or a skipped heartbeat from time to time. While these sensations are common and often harmless, they can sometimes signal a more serious heart rhythm condition. If they do, you can feel confident knowing you have our expert cardiology team on your side. Across our nationally recognized network, we provide comprehensive care for arrhythmias like AFib, combining advanced testing with minimally invasive treatments designed to restore your heart’s rhythm and support your whole health.
Feel Confident in Your Arrhythmia Care
Protecting your cardiovascular system is our priority. And with a connected network of cardiovascular specialists across Chicago’s Western Suburbs, you can feel confident entrusting yours to us. Our doctors receive the highest levels of training, and we believe anything is possible when compassion and innovation go hand in hand.
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Access to Advanced Procedures
We use leading-edge diagnostic tools and minimally invasive techniques designed for faster recovery and fewer complications.
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Connected, Collaborative Care
Your care is guided by an experienced team of heart specialists who work together to evaluate and treat your condition.
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Focused on Long-Term Heart Health
We're dedicated to your long-term health. Here, you'll find ongoing support to help manage your condition and reduce future risk.
Types of Arrhythmia Conditions We Treat
- Atrial flutter
- Paroxysmal AFib
- Permanent AFib
- Persistent AFib
- Ventricular arrhythmias
Atrial Fibrillation and Arrhythmia Treatments
Your heart sets the rhythm for your entire body, and when that rhythm feels off, it can affect how you feel day to day. Our team is here to provide clarity, answer your questions and help you take the next step with confidence. Although some irregular heartbeats are common, ongoing or unusual symptoms deserve expert attention. With a team of experienced cardiologists and cardiovascular specialists, we provide comprehensive care for arrhythmias and AFib, including the following treatments:
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Cardioversion for AFib
A carefully guided approach to restoring a normal heartbeat using medication or electrical therapy.
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Catheter Ablation for AFib
A targeted, minimally invasive treatment that corrects abnormal rhythms at their source.
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Maze Procedure
A surgical option that helps redirect electrical signals for a more stable rhythm.
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Medications
Treatments that manage heart rate, regulate rhythm and help prevent complications like blood clots.
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Pacemaker
A device that supports a consistent, steady heartbeat.
Care to Keep Your Heart in Sync
Protecting your cardiovascular system is our priority. And with our long history of caring for hearts across Chicagoland, you can feel confident entrusting yours to us. Our doctors receive the highest levels of training, and we believe anything is possible when compassion and innovation go hand in hand.
- Recognizing Signs of an Irregular Heartbeat
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Your heart is your body’s natural rhythm keeper, and when that rhythm changes, it can be concerning. Arrhythmias, including atrial fibrillation, can cause a variety of symptoms that range from mild to more noticeable. Recognizing these signs early can make a meaningful difference in your care. If you experience fluttering sensations, unexplained fatigue or dizziness, it’s important to pay attention.
At UChicago Medicine AdventHealth, our team is here to help you identify AFib symptoms and understand what’s next. While symptoms can vary, some common indicators of an irregular heartbeat include:
- Chest discomfort or pain: a feeling of pressure, tightness or pain in the chest that may come and go.
- Dizziness or lightheadedness: a sensation of feeling unsteady, woozy or near fainting.
- Fainting or near-fainting episodes: sudden loss of consciousness or feeling like you’re going to pass out.
- Fatigue or weakness: unusual tiredness or lack of energy, even with normal activities.
- Heart palpitations: a fluttering, racing, pounding or irregular heartbeat sensation.
- Shortness of breath: difficulty breathing or feeling winded, even without exertion.
- Sweating without exertion: unexpected or excessive sweating not caused by heat or physical activity.
If you notice any of these symptoms, especially if they happen frequently or suddenly, don’t wait to seek care. Our team is ready to assess your heart’s rhythm, find the cause and create a plan to restore balance to your heartbeat so you can focus on living fully.
- Steadying Your Heart Starts With an Accurate Diagnosis
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When your heart is beating irregularly, it's hard to think about anything else. If you feel consistent fluttering or racing heart rates, shortness of breath or lightheadedness, don’t hesitate to come to UChicago Medicine AdventHealth. Our network offers some of the fastest diagnostic tests for atrial fibrillation and arrhythmias, so we can diagnose you quickly and get you the treatment you need.
Your cardiologists will work with you to assess any risk factors like heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes and sleep apnea, and make a comprehensive plan to identify and treat the cause of your irregular heartbeat. Some of our diagnostic tests include:
- Blood tests: lab tests that check for conditions like infections, electrolyte imbalances or heart disease that may contribute to arrhythmias.
- Catheter mapping: a procedure that uses a thin tube (catheter) to create a detailed map of the heart’s electrical activity and identify irregular rhythms.
- Echocardiograms: an ultrasound of the heart that provides images of its structure and function to detect abnormalities.
- Electrocardiograms (ECG): a test that records the heart’s electrical activity to identify irregular heartbeats.
- Longer-term heart monitoring devices: wearable or implantable devices like Holter monitors, loop recorders or event recorders that track heart rhythms over time.
- Physical exams: a hands-on assessment where a doctor listens to the heart, checks pulse patterns and looks for signs of heart conditions.
- Stress tests: a test that monitors heart activity during exercise or medication-induced stress to detect irregular rhythms.
- Tilt tests: a procedure that evaluates how the heart and blood pressure respond to changes in position, often used to diagnose fainting episodes.
Find Answers for Irregular Heart Rhythms
If you’re experiencing symptoms like a racing, fluttering or irregular heartbeat, you don’t have to wait for answers. Our experienced arrhythmia specialists are here to listen, evaluate your symptoms and create a care plan tailored to you. Request an appointment today and take the next step toward a steadier, stronger heart.
FAQs About Arrhythmias and AFib
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Q:Question: How can I improve my heart health?
A:Answer:The four main types of arrhythmias are bradycardia, fibrillation, premature heartbeats and tachycardia.
Continue ReadingCollapse Answer- Bradycardia (slow heart rate): The heart beats too slowly, typically fewer than 60 beats per minute, which can cause fatigue, dizziness or fainting.
- Fibrillation (irregular heartbeat): The heart’s electrical signals become chaotic, causing rapid, uncoordinated beats. Atrial fibrillation (AFib) and ventricular fibrillation are common types.
- Premature heartbeats (extra or skipped beats): Extra heartbeats that disrupt the normal rhythm, often felt as a fluttering or skipping sensation in the chest.
- Tachycardia (fast heart rate): The heart beats too quickly, usually over 100 beats per minute, which can lead to palpitations, shortness of breath or chest discomfort.
Each type varies in severity and treatment options, but with the right care, many arrhythmias can be effectively managed.
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Q:Question: What causes arrhythmias like atrial fibrillation?
A:Answer:Arrhythmias, including atrial fibrillation (AFib), occur when the heart’s electrical signals are disrupted, causing it to beat irregularly.
Continue ReadingCollapse AnswerSeveral factors can contribute to these irregular rhythms.
- Alcohol or caffeine consumption: Excessive intake can overstimulate the heart and trigger irregular beats.
- Congenital heart defects: Irregular heart rhythms can be present from birth due to structural abnormalities.
- Coronary artery disease (CAD): Blocked or narrowed arteries can reduce blood flow to the heart, leading to rhythm disturbances.
- Diabetes: High blood sugar levels can damage the heart’s electrical system and increase the risk of arrhythmias.
- Electrolyte imbalances: Low or high levels of potassium, sodium, calcium or magnesium can interfere with heart signaling.
- Heart attacks: Damage to heart tissue from a previous heart attack can disrupt normal electrical pathways.
- Heart failure: A weakened heart may struggle to maintain a steady rhythm.
- High blood pressure (hypertension): Increased pressure can strain the heart and alter its electrical activity.
- Hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism: An overactive or underactive thyroid can affect heart rate and rhythm.
- Infections or inflammation: Conditions like myocarditis or pericarditis can interfere with heart function.
- Lung diseases (COPD, sleep apnea, etc.): Poor oxygen levels and increased heart strain can contribute to arrhythmias.
- Medications and stimulants: Certain prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications and illegal substances can affect heart rhythm.
- Stress and anxiety: Emotional distress or chronic stress can lead to irregular heartbeats.
- Surgery or medical procedures: Some cardiac surgeries or interventions may temporarily or permanently affect heart rhythm.
While arrhythmias like AFib can be concerning, many of these causes are manageable with lifestyle changes, medication or treatment. Early diagnosis and proper care can help restore a steady heartbeat and improve overall heart health.
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Q:Question: What are the symptoms of atrial fibrillation?
A:Answer:Atrial fibrillation (AFib) symptoms can vary from person to person. Some may feel noticeable heart palpitations, while others may not experience any symptoms at all.
Continue ReadingCollapse AnswerRecognizing the signs can help with early diagnosis and treatment.
AFib symptoms can include:
- Chest discomfort or pain: a sensation of tightness, pressure or pain in the chest.
- Dizziness or lightheadedness: feeling unsteady, woozy or as if you might faint.
- Exercise intolerance: unusual fatigue or difficulty keeping up with normal physical activity.
- Fatigue or weakness: persistent tiredness, even without exertion.
- Heart palpitations: a fluttering, rapid or irregular heartbeat sensation, often described as pounding or skipping beats.
- Shortness of breath: difficulty breathing, especially during activity or while lying down.
- Sweating without exertion: sudden or excessive sweating unrelated to heat or physical activity.
Some people with AFib experience symptoms only occasionally (paroxysmal AFib), while others may have persistent or permanent AFib that requires ongoing management. If you notice any of these symptoms — especially chest pain or fainting — seek medical attention right away to prevent complications like stroke or heart failure.
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Q:Question: Is atrial fibrillation hereditary?
A:Answer:Yes, atrial fibrillation (AFib) can be hereditary, meaning it may run in families.
Continue ReadingCollapse AnswerWhile lifestyle factors and medical conditions often play a significant role in developing AFib, research has shown that genetics can also contribute to an increased risk.
If you have a family history of AFib, you can take proactive steps such as monitoring your heart health, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing stress and getting regular checkups. Early detection can help prevent complications like stroke or heart failure.
While genetics may play a role, having a family history of AFib does not mean you will develop it. It just means being mindful of your heart health is even more important.
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Q:Question: Does atrial fibrillation cause heart failure?
A:Answer:Yes, atrial fibrillation (AFib) can potentially lead to heart failure, particularly if it is not properly managed.
Continue ReadingCollapse AnswerWhile AFib can contribute to heart failure, effective treatment (including medication, lifestyle changes and sometimes procedures like cardioversion or ablation) can help control AFib, restore normal heart rhythm, and prevent heart failure. Early detection and management are key to preventing complications.
Not everyone with AFib will develop heart failure, but it’s important to monitor and manage your heart health with your doctor to keep both conditions in check.
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Q:Question: How do you diagnose atrial fibrillation?
A:Answer:Diagnosing atrial fibrillation (AFib) typically involves a combination of reviewing a person’s medical history, doing a physical examination and completing several diagnostic tests.
Continue ReadingCollapse AnswerThe goal is to confirm the presence of AFib and assess its underlying causes and any related complications.
Diagnosing AFib can include steps like:
- Blood tests: tests to check for underlying issues like thyroid problems or electrolyte imbalances.
- Chest X-ray and stress test: used to evaluate heart and lung function, especially if other heart conditions are suspected.
- Electrocardiogram (ECG): this test records your heart’s electrical activity to detect AFib by detecting irregular rhythms.
- Holter monitor: a portable device that continuously tracks your heart's rhythm for 24 to 48 hours if episodes are intermittent.
- Medical history review and physical exam: your doctor will ask about symptoms and check for irregular pulse or abnormal heart sounds.
- Echocardiogram: an ultrasound that examines heart structure and function, looking for underlying causes of AFib.
No matter which diagnostic steps our teams use, rest assured that we’ll work to detect AFib and create a treatment plan that meets your needs.
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Q:Question: What is the treatment for atrial fibrillation?
A:Answer:The treatment for atrial fibrillation (AFib) focuses on controlling the heart's rhythm and rate, preventing blood clots and addressing any underlying causes. Treatment options can vary depending on the severity and type of AFib.
Continue ReadingCollapse AnswerCommon treatment options for atrial fibrillation include:
- Ablation therapy: A minimally invasive procedure where heat or cold is used to destroy small areas of the heart tissue that are causing irregular electrical signals.
- Electrical cardioversion: A procedure where a controlled electric shock is delivered to the heart to reset it to a normal rhythm.
- Lifestyle changes: Managing underlying conditions (like high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity), reducing alcohol and caffeine intake, managing stress and maintaining a healthy weight can help control AFib.
- Medications
- Blood thinners (anticoagulants): Medications like warfarin or newer anticoagulants (e.g., apixaban) reduce the risk of blood clots and stroke.
- Rate-control medications: Drugs like beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers help slow the heart rate and make it more regular.
- Rhythm-control medications: Antiarrhythmic drugs help restore and maintain a normal heart rhythm.
- Pacemaker: In some cases, if AFib causes slow heart rates or other issues, a pacemaker may be implanted to regulate heart rhythm.
- Surgery (Maze procedure): For severe or persistent AFib, this surgery creates small scars in the heart to block abnormal electrical signals and restore normal rhythm.
If you’re diagnosed with AFib, our experts will work with you to create an AFib treatment plan that’s customized to your needs and goals and keeps your whole health in mind.
Take the First Step Toward a Healthier Heart
Whether you’re experiencing symptoms or just want peace of mind, our team is here for you. Request an appointment and get the trusted guidance you deserve.