Treatments for Arrhythmias (Heart Rhythm Disturbances)

Treatment of arrhythmias depends on the type and seriousness of the particular rhythm disturbance. For example:

Medications are most often used in tachyarrhythmias (fast heart rates).
Electrical conversion is used for life-threatening irregular rhythms.
Pacemakers are used most frequently for bradyarrhythmias (slow heart rates).

Treatment aims to maintain the heart's ability to pump blood efficiently.

Treatment involves the following:

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]]>Medications]]>
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References:

Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine. 14th ed. McGraw-Hill; 1998.

Mayo Clinic and Foundation for Medical Education and Research website. Available at: http://www.mayo.edu/ .

National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute website. Available at: http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/ .

Last reviewed June 2008 by ]]>Michael J. Fucci, DO]]>

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.