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Treatments for Arrhythmias (Heart Rhythm Disturbances)

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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:

Lifestyle changesMedicationsSurgeryOther treatments

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

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References

  • Ferri F, ed. Ferri’s Clinical Advisor 2010. 1st ed. Philadelphia: Mosby Elsevier, 2009.

  • Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Textbook of Internal Medicine . 23rd ed. Philadelphia: Saunders, 2008.

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

  • Libby P, et al. Braunwald’s Heart Disease .8th ed. Philadelphia: Saunders, 2007.

  • 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/ .

  • Noble J. Textbook of Primary Care Medicine . 3rd ed.

  • Rakel R. Textbook of Family Medicine 2007 . 7th ed. Philadelphia: Saunders Elsevier, 2009.

  • Rakel RE, Bope ET. Conn's Current Therapy . 60th ed. Philadelphia: Saunders Elsevier, 2009.

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