Heart Rhythm Disorders (Arrhythmias)

Your heart keeps you going. When its rhythm is off, even simple moments can feel uncertain. That’s why getting the right diagnosis and treatment matters.

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Expert Care for Heart Rhythm Disorders

If your heart is racing, fluttering, skipping beats, or beating irregularly, you’re not alone — and you don’t have to just live with it. Serving Greater Manchester and Southern New Hampshire, our heart rhythm specialists—electrophysiologists, specialized cardiologists who diagnose and treat heart rhythm disorders, also called arrhythmias — use advanced technology and minimally invasive procedures tailored to your care needs.

Electrophysiology is the branch of cardiology focused on heart rhythm. If your doctor referred you to an electrophysiologist, you’re in the right place.

Your Heart Deserves the Right Care

Arrhythmias occur when the electrical signals that control your heartbeat do not work as they should. Your heart may beat too fast, too slow, or in an irregular pattern, which may cause uncomfortable or concerning symptoms.

Some arrhythmias are harmless. Others, if left untreated, can increase your risk of blood clots, stroke, heart failure, or sudden cardiac arrest. Getting the right diagnosis early can make a meaningful difference in your quality of life.

Common types of arrhythmias we treat include:

Atrial Fibrillation (AFib): The most common heart rhythm disorder in the United States, affecting how well the heart pumps blood.
Atrial Flutter: Similar to AFib, but typically following a more organized rhythm.
Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT): Rapid heart rhythms that start above the ventricles and may cause palpitations or dizziness.
Ventricular Tachycardia (VT): A fast heartbeat originating in the heart's lower chambers that can be life-threatening and requires prompt attention.
Bradycardia: A slow heart rate that may cause fatigue, dizziness, or fainting.
Premature Contractions (PACs/PVCs): Early or extra heartbeats that can feel like a skipped beat or flutter.

Personalized Treatment, Built Around You

Your care begins with a consultation with one of our experienced cardiologists. From your very first appointment, we take the time to listen closely to your concerns, review your medical history, and test results to understand exactly what is happening with your heart rhythm.

From there, your physician develops a treatment plan designed for your condition and lifestyle, helping you understand your options and what to expect every step of the way.

Diagnostics and Testing

Diagnosing a heart rhythm problem starts with understanding your heart's electrical system — the signals that control how it beats. Our electrophysiologists use advanced techniques to identify precisely where abnormal electrical signals originate, allowing for targeted diagnosis and treatment tailored to your needs.

We use the latest advanced diagnostics to pinpoint exactly what's happening with your heart's electrical system, including:

Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG)

Holter monitor and implantable loop recorder

Electrophysiological testing and cardiac mapping

Echocardiogram and stress testing

Advanced imaging / Cardiac CT

Treatment Options

Depending on your condition and its severity, your care team may recommend:

Catheter Ablation (Heart Ablation): a minimally invasive procedure that uses catheters to target and correct abnormal electrical pathways. This includes approaches such as left atrial ablation for atrial fibrillation, using radiofrequency, cryoablation, or pulsed field ablation.
Left Atrial Appendage Closure (LAAC) / Watchman Device: A minimally invasive procedure for patients with atrial fibrillation that helps reduce the risk of stroke and may eliminate the need for long-term blood thinners. We offer advanced LAAC options such as the Watchman™ device.
Cardioversion: A procedure that uses a controlled electrical shock to restore your heart's normal rhythm
Pacemaker or Defibrillator Implantation: Devices that monitor your heart and deliver electrical signals to keep it beating safely and regularly
Medication Management: Carefully selected medications to control your heart rate, restore rhythm, and reduce the risk of stroke
Lifestyle Modifications: Targeted guidance on diet, exercise, and other habits that can significantly improve your heart rhythm and overall heart health

Frequently asked questions about Heart Rhythm Disorders

Common symptoms include heart palpitations (a racing, pounding, fluttering, or skipping sensation in the chest), dizziness, shortness of breath, unusual fatigue, and chest discomfort. Some people notice their heart beating too fast, too slow, or irregularly — even at rest. If you experience chest pain or severe shortness of breath, seek emergency care right away, as these may signal a heart attack.

No. A heart rhythm disorder affects the electrical signals that control your heartbeat, while a heart attack occurs when blood flow to the heart is blocked. However, some arrhythmias can increase your risk of serious complications, which is why early evaluation is so important.

Minimally invasive procedures like catheter ablation are well-established and performed by experienced electrophysiologists. Your care team will walk you through the risks, benefits, and what to expect so you can make the decision that feels right for you.

Not necessarily. Depending on your condition and the treatment you receive, there may be options — such as left atrial appendage closure — that can reduce or eliminate your need for long-term blood-thinning medication. Your electrophysiologist will help determine what's right for your situation.

Even mild symptoms deserve attention. Some arrhythmias cause few or no noticeable symptoms but can still pose risks over time, such as increasing the likelihood of more serious heart conditions or complications if left untreated. An electrophysiologist can help you understand whether your condition requires treatment or simply ongoing monitoring.

Many heart rhythm conditions can be managed by a cardiologist. An electrophysiologist is a cardiologist with additional specialized training focused specifically on heart rhythm disorders. If your symptoms are persistent, hard to control with medication, or may require procedures like ablation or a pacemaker, your cardiologist may refer you to an electrophysiologist.

Ready to get your rhythm back?

If you’re experiencing an irregular heartbeat, heart palpitations, AFib, or other symptoms of a heart rhythm disorder in Greater Manchester or Southern New Hampshire, our heart rhythm specialists are here to help.

We’ll work with you to understand your condition and guide you toward the treatment options that are right for you.