Arrhythmia Management Specialist
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Marc L. Ladenheim, MD, FACC
Cardiologist & Internist located in Burbank, CA
Arrhythmias, or abnormal heart rhythms, can be harmless in some cases and be a serious health risk in others. Because the risk associated with your arrhythmia is unknown, seeking evaluation and treatment from a qualified cardiologist is imperative in protecting your long-term heart health. Dr. Marc L. Ladenheim in Burbank, California, offers compassionate, expert consultation for patients suffering from abnormal heart rhythms. If you live in or around Studio City, Sherman Oaks, Valley Village, Encino, Tarzana, Toluca Lake, Chatsworth, North Hollywood (NoHo), Valley Glen, Sun Valley and have or suspect you have an abnormal heart rhythm, don’t delay treatment, schedule an appointment today at Marc L. Ladenheim, MD, FACC.
Arrhythmia Management Q & A
What is an arrhythmia?
When the electrical impulses that cause your heart to beat vary from a normal sequence, an abnormal heart rhythm, called an arrhythmia, results. Common arrhythmias include:
- Atrial fibrillation
- Bradycardia
- Tachycardia
- Ventricular fibrillation
Other forms of arrhythmias can also occur.
What causes arrhythmias?
Arrhythmias are complex, and the cause depends on the kind of arrhythmia that’s occurring. Common causes include:
- An imbalance of potassium or sodium in the blood
- Coronary artery disease (CAD)
- Heart muscle changes
- Injury sustained during a heart attack
In some cases, arrhythmias occur in hearts that are otherwise healthy and the cause is unknown.
What are the symptoms of arrhythmias?
Sometimes an abnormal heart rhythm doesn’t produce any symptoms at all. In these cases, arrhythmias are often detected during a routine annual physical. Patients who do experience symptoms often report:
- Heart palpitations
- Pounding in the chest
- Dizziness or lightheadedness.
How are arrhythmias diagnosed?
Abnormal heart rhythms can sometimes be detected by listening to your heart or taking your pulse, but a definitive diagnosis requires further testing. A variety of tests can be used to diagnose and/or rule out arrhythmias:
- Electrocardiogram
- Echocardiogram
- Holter monitor
- Stress test
- Event monitor
- Cardiac catheterization
- Head-up tilt table test
- Electrophysiology study
How are arrhythmias managed or treated?
Some arrhythmias don’t require treatment, while others are treated with drugs, lifestyle changes, cardioversion (shock), or a pacemaker. How your arrhythmia is treated depends on the nature of the abnormal rhythm and he risks it poses.
When should I seek medical attention?
Many arrhythmias are detected during a routine physical exam. It’s important that you see your doctor for screening and prevention purposes at least once a year.
During your annual appointment, Dr. Ladenheim will listen to your heart signs and measure your pulse. If he suspects an arrhythmia, further testing may be ordered.
If you suspect an arrhythmia or experience heart palpitations, pounding, and/or dizziness, schedule an appointment with Dr. Ladenheim for further evaluation.
What kind of doctor manages arrhythmias?
An experienced cardiologist can both diagnose and treat your heart arrhythmia, establishing a treatment plan customized for your needs.
