Abnormal Heart Rhythms

Abnormal heart rhythms, or arrhythmias, are changes in the rate or pattern of the heartbeat: the heart may beat too fast, too slow, or irregularly.

Possible symptoms: palpitations, a sensation of skipped beats, dizziness, fatigue, or shortness of breath; some arrhythmias produce no noticeable symptoms.

When to seek care? An evaluation is advisable if palpitations are accompanied by dizziness, chest pain, or fainting, since these require testing to determine their origin and significance.

Which specialist treats it? The cardiologist is the go-to professional for evaluating the heart's rhythm through specific tests, and in childhood the pediatric cardiologist steps in. If you notice that your heart beats irregularly or unusually, the sensible thing is to discuss it with a physician before drawing conclusions on your own.