About-Cardio
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We provide our users the most up-to-date and accurate information on the treatment and prevention of cardio pathologies in accordance with current American and European clinical guidelines.
The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a licensed physician for diagnosis and treatment.
Cardiac Electrophysiology: Understanding the Electrical System of the Heart
Introduction
Cardiac electrophysiology (EP) is a specialized field of cardiology that focuses on the heart's electrical system and the diagnosis and treatment of abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias). The electrical system of the heart ensures that it beats in a coordinated manner, allowing for proper blood circulation. When this system malfunctions, it can lead to serious conditions such as atrial fibrillation, ventricular tachycardia, or heart block.
The Electrical Conduction System of the Heart
The heart's electrical impulses originate from a natural pacemaker called the sinoatrial (SA) node, located in the right atrium. The pathway of electrical conduction is as follows:
- SA Node: Generates the electrical impulse, setting the heart rate.
- Atrioventricular (AV) Node: Delays the impulse slightly to allow the atria to contract before the ventricles.
- Bundle of His: Conducts the impulse from the AV node down toward the ventricles.
- Right and Left Bundle Branches: Carry impulses to the ventricles.
- Purkinje Fibers: Ensure that the electrical signal spreads properly so that the ventricles contract in a synchronized manner.
Common Electrophysiological Disorders
- Atrial Fibrillation (AFib): Rapid, irregular beating of the atria, which can increase the risk of stroke.
- Ventricular Tachycardia (VT): A fast rhythm originating from the ventricles, which can be life-threatening.
- Heart Block: A delay or interruption in conduction between the atria and ventricles.
- Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT): Abnormally fast heart rhythms originating above the ventricles.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnostic Tests
- Electrocardiogram (ECG): Measures electrical activity in the heart.
- Holter Monitor: A 24-hour ECG monitoring device.
- Electrophysiological Study (EPS): A specialized test using catheters placed inside the heart to map its electrical activity.
Treatment Options
- Medications: Antiarrhythmic drugs to control heart rhythms.
- Catheter Ablation: A procedure using radiofrequency energy to destroy abnormal heart tissue causing arrhythmias.
- Pacemakers: Devices that help regulate a slow heart rhythm.
- Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD): A device that corrects dangerous arrhythmias, such as ventricular fibrillation or VT.
Conclusion
Understanding cardiac electrophysiology is important for diagnosing and treating arrhythmias effectively. If you experience symptoms like palpitations, dizziness, or fainting, consult a cardiologist for an evaluation.
Source recommendations
1. European Society of Cardiology Guidelines on Cardiac Pacing and Resynchronization Therapy
- https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Cardiac-Pacing-and-Cardiac-Resynchronization-Therapy
- https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/42/35/3427/6358547
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34455430/
- https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/34/29/2281/401445
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23801827/
2. American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association/Heart Rhythm Society Guidelines for the Management of Patients with Atrial Fibrillation
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001193
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38033089/
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000000665
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30703431/
- https://www.hrsonline.org/guidance/clinical-resources/2023-accahaaccphrs-guideline-diagnosis-and-management-patients-atrial-fibrillation
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If you or your loved ones experience any of these symptoms, you should consult a doctor in time. Remember that self-medication can be dangerous, and timely diagnosis will preserve the quality and life expectancy.
The heart is an organ that does not know how to "keep silent" if something goes wrong. Chest pain, shortness of breath, swelling, dizziness, and rhythm disturbances are the symptoms that require our attention. The best prevention of heart disease is careful attention to your health, regular checkups with a doctor, and a healthy lifestyle. Take care of your heart, and it will serve you for many years!
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Every 3-5 years, half of the scientific approaches to treatment in the field of cardiology are reviewed as a result of specialized scientific discoveries. With us, you don't have to wait these years to learn about the best ways to treat you and your loved ones.