Sarasota Cardiologist for Evaluating Abnormal Heart Rhythms

A skipped heartbeat is a concerning phenomenon for anyone. If the heart is not working properly, body functions are affected either temporarily or for the long term. There are many specialized areas of medicine; however, for heart conditions the services of a cardiologist is recommended.

Cardiology is a specialty dealing with the cardiovascular system of the body. Cardiologists are highly trained physicians and skilled specialists in finding, treating and preventing disease of the cardiovascular system. Cardiology specialties cover many areas from general cardiology to interventional cardiology. These physicians may practice in a single or group practice independently or as part of a hospital facility. Major cities and rural communities alike have cardiology practitioners available and finding a Sarasota cardiologist is accomplished just as easily. An electrophysiologist is a cardiologist who specializes in diagnosing and treating abnormal heart rhythms. This specialized cardiologist determines the possible cause of an abnormal rhythm and recommends treatment. When the patient or another physician detects an abnormal rhythm, care from an electrophysiologist may be recommended.

The main function of the heart is to supply blood and nutrients to the body, and this function is accomplished with regular beats pushing blood through the body via the blood vessels. Electrical impulses control the heartbeat and a normal beat occurs at regular intervals. When the heartbeat is irregular, flow is disrupted and problems arise. Abnormal heartbeats result in a rhythm disorder known as arrhythmia. There are many types of abnormal heart rhythms and an arrhythmia is classified by where it begins. Some of the more common arrhythmias are premature atrial contraction (PAC), supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) and atrial fibrillation (AFib). Many rhythm disorders are random; however, some disorders are due to heart disease such as coronary artery disease (CAD), valve problems or high blood pressure to name a few. An electrophysiologist uses their specialized skill to determine which arrhythmia the patient is experiencing.

Many causes for arrhythmia are not due to heart disease but are the result of infection, stress, anemia, or the use of stimulants. Drinking too many cups of coffee may induce a fast heart rate and pounding in the chest area. The electrophysiologist may review workup tests that include an electrocardiogram (ECG) to determine the exact type of arrhythmia or an echocardiogram to evaluate function and structure. The cardiology specialist may then recommend an electrophysiology test to determine the electrical activity and pathways. As always, it is recommended to seek medical attention for any suspected abnormality. The specialized skill of a cardiologist is always a good choice for treatment of the cardiovascular system.

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