What Is Arrhythmia?

Arrhythmia occurs when the electrical signals controlling the heartbeat do not function normally. Some rhythm changes are harmless, while others can reduce blood flow or increase the risk of stroke and heart complications.

Common Arrhythmia Symptoms

Symptoms may include:

• Racing, pounding, or fluttering heartbeat
• Skipped or irregular beats
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Shortness of breath
• Chest discomfort
• Unusual fatigue
• Fainting or near-fainting

Some arrhythmias cause no noticeable symptoms and are discovered during routine testing.

Common Types of Arrhythmia

Arrhythmias include:

• Atrial fibrillation
• Supraventricular tachycardia
• Bradycardia
• Premature heartbeats
• Ventricular arrhythmias
• Heart conduction disorders

Atrial fibrillation is particularly important because it may increase the risk of blood clots and stroke.

What Causes Arrhythmia?

Possible causes include:

• Coronary artery disease
• High blood pressure
• Heart valve disease
• Previous heart attack
• Thyroid disorders
• Electrolyte imbalance
• Stress or lack of sleep
• Excessive caffeine or alcohol
• Certain medications

How Is Arrhythmia Diagnosed?

Testing may include:

• Electrocardiogram
• Holter monitoring
• Event monitoring
• Echocardiogram
• Blood tests
• Exercise testing

Because some arrhythmias occur only occasionally, longer heart rhythm monitoring may be necessary.

Arrhythmia Treatment

Treatment depends on the type, frequency, symptoms, and underlying cause.

Options may include:

• Heart rate or rhythm medication
• Blood-thinning medication
• Lifestyle changes
• Cardioversion
• Catheter ablation
• Pacemaker or implanted cardiac device

Patients requiring hospital procedures may be referred to an appropriate medical center.

When Is Arrhythmia an Emergency?

Seek emergency care for an irregular heartbeat accompanied by:

• Severe chest pain
• Fainting
• Significant breathing difficulty
• Sudden weakness or confusion
• Stroke symptoms
• A very rapid heartbeat that does not improve

Arrhythmia Care for International Patients

Dr. Lim Do-Sun Cardiovascular Clinic welcomes international patients and expatriates seeking irregular heartbeat evaluation in Seoul.

Patients should bring previous ECGs, Holter results, hospital records, and a current medication list when available.

Why Choose Dr. Lim Do-Sun Heart Clinic?

The clinic provides:

• Cardiologist-led consultations
• ECG and Holter monitoring
• Echocardiography
• Personalized rhythm evaluation
• Medication review
• Stroke-risk assessment
• International patient support

Book an Arrhythmia Evaluation in Seoul

Recurring palpitations, dizziness, fainting, or an irregular heartbeat should not be ignored.

Visit Dr. Lim Do-Sun Cardiovascular Clinic for professional arrhythmia testing and cardiovascular care in Seoul, Korea.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are palpitations always caused by arrhythmia?

No. Palpitations may also be related to stress, caffeine, anemia, thyroid problems, medication, or lack of sleep.

Can arrhythmia come and go?

Yes. Intermittent arrhythmias may not appear during a standard ECG and may require Holter or event monitoring.

Is atrial fibrillation dangerous?

Atrial fibrillation can increase the risk of stroke and may require medication or other treatment.

Can arrhythmia be treated with medication?

Many arrhythmias can be managed with medication, although some patients may require cardioversion, ablation, or a cardiac device.

Can caffeine trigger an irregular heartbeat?

Excessive caffeine may trigger palpitations or worsen symptoms in some people.

Should fainting with palpitations be evaluated?

Yes. Fainting with an irregular or rapid heartbeat requires prompt medical evaluation.