Electrophysiology

An arrhythmia refers to any abnormality in the rhythm or rate of the heartbeat. Normally, the heart beats in a steady, rhythmic pattern, which is crucial for pumping blood efficiently throughout the body. Sometimes this rhythm becomes irregular, either beating too fast (tachycardia), too slow (bradycardia), or erratically.

If you notice an irregular heartbeat, you should make an appointment with your primary care provider. They will evaluate your condition and, if necessary, refer you to an electrophysiologist. If you experience shortness of breath, lightheadedness or passing out related to an irregular heartbeat, you should seek immediate care at the nearest emergency room or call 911.

Electrophysiologists specialize in diagnosing and treating cardiac arrhythmias. 

• Palpitations: fast or irregular heartbeat
• Bradycardia: slower than normal heart rate
• Ventricular tachycardia: fast heartbeat starting in the two lower chambers (ventricles)
• Atrial flutter: fast heartbeat starting in the two upper chambers (atria)
• Atrial fibrillation (AFib): faster and more irregular version of atrial flutter

Heart Rhythm Health

Whether your heart is beating unusually slow, skips beats or beats unevenly, the cause can be cardiac or noncardiac. Sometimes other unknown causes can be a factor. An electrophysiologist may run multiple tests to determine the cause of the newfound arrhythmia. The testing will help determine the diagnosis and the treatment plan for the underlying arrhythmia.

Public Access Defibrillator Program

Defibrillators make it easy to help save a life in an emergency. Avera Heart Hospital is committed to helping communities stay safe by offering automated external defibrillators (AEDs) to businesses and individuals at cost. As one of the largest public access defibrillator programs in the United States, Avera has partnered with organizations, such as Sioux Falls Fire Rescue, to get more AEDs into buildings throughout our communities.

• AEDs today prompt you every step of the way with directions. They’ll tell you if a shock is advised, help you know where to place the pads and when to not touch the victim.
• The most important thing is to act and get the person’s heart beating again. Every passing minute without CPR and defibrillation can mean the difference between life and death for a cardiac arrest victim.
• To see how you can purchase AEDs at cost, please request more information.

Rural Access to Cardiology Services

Avera Heart Hospital network brings specialty cardiac care and the region’s top expertise to your community. Physicians visit outreach sites located throughout eastern South Dakota. Patients in rural and remote areas can benefit from Careflight emergency air transport and telemedicine for additional support by specialists.

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