Senior Consultant Discusses Irregular Heart Rhythm in Young Adults

Dr. Rakesh Sarkar, a Senior Consultant at B M Birla Heart Research Centre, has shed light on the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for irregular heart rhythm in young adults. In his discussion, Dr. Sarkar emphasized the importance of early detection and intervention through lifestyle modifications and advanced diagnostic procedures like electrophysiology studies.

Irregular heart rhythms, also known as cardiac arrhythmias, can affect individuals of all ages, including young people. These arrhythmias may be caused by various factors, such as congenital heart defects, underlying medical conditions, medication side effects, genetic predispositions, lifestyle factors, or even stress and anxiety. Common symptoms experienced by young individuals with irregular heart rhythms include palpitations, dizziness, fainting episodes, chest discomfort, shortness of breath, and fatigue.

To assess heart rhythm and function, healthcare providers may use various diagnostic tests, including electrocardiogram (ECG), Holter monitor, event recorder, echocardiogram, and electrophysiology studies. Treatment for irregular heart rhythms in young people often involves lifestyle modifications, such as stress reduction, regular exercise, and a healthy diet, as well as medications to control heart rate and rhythm. In some cases, advanced interventional procedures like radiofrequency ablation may be performed in a specialized electrophysiology (EP) lab to correct the abnormal electrical pathways in the heart tissue.

Why this matters: Early detection and appropriate management of irregular heart rhythms are crucial for young individuals to maintain their heart health and overall well-being. By raising awareness about the causes, symptoms, and treatment options, healthcare professionals like Dr. Sarkar aim to encourage young adults to seek timely medical attention and adopt heart-healthy lifestyles.

Dr. Sarkar's discussion highlights the significance of addressing irregular heart rhythms in young adults through a combination of lifestyle modifications and advanced diagnostic and treatment procedures. As he states, "Early detection and proper treatment are crucial to manage irregular heart rhythms in young adults." By emphasizing the importance of proactive measures and specialized care, Dr. Sarkar aims to improve the cardiovascular health outcomes for young individuals facing irregular heart rhythm challenges.

Key Takeaways

• Irregular heart rhythms can affect young adults due to various factors.
• Common symptoms include palpitations, dizziness, chest discomfort, and fatigue.
• Diagnostic tests include ECG, Holter monitor, and electrophysiology studies.
• Treatment involves lifestyle changes and medications, with ablation in some cases.
• Early detection and proper management are crucial for young adults' heart health.