If your heart beats irregularly, your doctor might suggest seeing an electrophysiologist. But what exactly is an electrophysiologist? An electrophysiologist is a heart doctor who specializes in the electrical system of the heart. Your heart’s electrical system controls your heartbeat and keeps the blood pumping through your body at the right pace. When something disrupts these electrical signals, your heart might beat too fast, too slow, or irregularly, a condition called an arrhythmia.
At the Center for Atrial Fibrillation and Electrophysiology, our providers will help you figure out why your heart rhythm is off. They will then create a plan just for you to help get your heartbeat back on track.
What Does an Electrophysiologist Do?
You might wonder what an electrophysiologist does during your appointment. First, your electrophysiologist will walk you through your symptoms. They will listen carefully to your heart and then conduct tests to learn your heart’s rhythm and why it might be irregular.
Here are some things your electrophysiologist will do:
- Diagnose the exact type of irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia) you have
- Run tests that measure your heart’s electrical activity
- Recommend treatments like catheter ablation or pacemakers
- Help manage medications to control your heartbeat
Conditions Treated at The Center for Atrial Fibrillation and Electrophysiology
At the Center for Atrial Fibrillation and Electrophysiology, our providers treat many heart rhythm problems, including:
- Atrial fibrillation: Causes a fluttering, irregular heartbeat.
- Bradycardia: A condition where your heartbeat is slower than normal, usually less than 60 beats per minute.
- Tachycardia: A heartbeat that goes too fast, typically over 100 beats per minute.
- Ventricular fibrillation: A dangerous, very fast heartbeat occurring in the heart’s lower chambers.
- Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT): When your heart suddenly beats fast from the upper chambers.
- Heart block: Interrupts electrical signals in your heart.
Tests and Diagnostics We Provide
During your visit, your electrophysiologist will perform various tests to determine the exact cause of your arrhythmia. These tests give your doctor clear information about your heart’s rhythm.
Common tests at the Center for Atrial Fibrillation and Electrophysiology include:
- Electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG): Records your heart’s electrical signals.
- Holter monitor: A small device you wear to track your heart rhythm throughout the day.
- Echocardiogram: Uses sound waves to create images of your heart.
- Electrophysiology study (EPS): Special catheters measure your heart’s electrical activity.
- Event monitoring: A wearable device that captures unusual heartbeats when they happen.
Advanced Treatments Offered by Your Electrophysiologist
Once your electrophysiologist knows exactly what is happening with your heart, they will discuss the next steps. At the Center for Atrial Fibrillation and Electrophysiology, we offer safe and effective treatments using modern technology.
These treatments include:
- Medications to control your heartbeat.
- Cardiac ablation to correct the heart tissue causing abnormal beats.
- Pacemaker implantation, including advanced types that have no wires.
- Implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD), a device that helps restore normal rhythms quickly.
- Cardioversion, using a quick electrical pulse to reset your heartbeat.
- WATCHMAN procedure, which lowers stroke risk if you have atrial fibrillation.
When Should You See an Electrophysiologist?
Certain signs indicate when it’s time to visit an electrophysiologist. These signs include:
- Heart palpitations, feeling like your heart is fluttering or skipping beats.
- Regular episodes of dizziness or fainting.
- Shortness of breath, especially if it comes on suddenly.
- Chest discomfort or tightness.
- Already having a diagnosis of arrhythmia.
Personalized, Patient-Centered Care at The Center for Atrial Fibrillation and Electrophysiology
At the Center for Atrial Fibrillation and Electrophysiology, our providers put your comfort and safety first. They will consider your preferences, making sure you stay involved and informed.
Our goal is to help you feel better and live comfortably by using advanced technology in a caring environment.
Schedule Your Visit Today
At the Center for Atrial Fibrillation and Electrophysiology at HCA, we offer advanced diagnosis and treatment for arrhythmia. Our electrophysiologists involve you directly in each decision about your care. If you would like to schedule an appointment, please reach out to us today.