arrhythmia is a disorder that affects the heart’s electrical system causing the heart to beat too fast, too slow, or irregularly. Depending on the cardiac site involved and the type of electrical anomaly, diffrent types of arrhythmia are distinguished. “Among these, the most widespread are certainly extrasystoles and atrial fibrillation, which represents one of the major causes of hospitalization and affects around one million Italians. This arrhythmia is not immediately life-threatening, but significantly increases the risk of decompensation cardiac and cerebral ischemia if not appropriately and early treated.In recent years, thanks to new knowlege and technological advancement, giant strides have been made in the field of electrophysiology and interventional arrhythmology but they persist. however, areas of uncertainty both from a diagnostic and therapeutic point of view”. The cardiologists of the National Association of hospital cardiologists (Anmco) take stock of the situation on the occasion of the Anmco Beat Life Rhythm congress which ends today in Bari
A highly anticipated event which allowed, starting from shared experiences, a clarification of the most modern techniques for treating cardiovascular pathologies. “Inherent topics were discussed: atrial fibrillation, both from the point of view of treatment and prevention of thromboembolic risk; the new acquisitions on ventricular fibrillation; the new therapies for arrhythmic storm and ventricular tachycardias of a pharmacological type but above all of a Of great interest were also the sessions focusing on the treatment of heart failure thanks to new pacing methods, in particular the pacing of the conduction system which offers a new scenario in cardiac therapy.this pathology”, recalls the Anmco which adds that ”the advantages that the correct lifestyle and anti-obesity and lipid-lowering drugs guarantee in the context of heart failure and arrhythmias were also highlighted”.
according to Fabrizio Oliva, president of Anmco and director of Cardiology 1 of the Niguarda Hospital in Milan, “many arrhythmias are not perilous, but if you feel a sudden and abrupt change in heart rate, an abnormal heart rhythm, especially if associated with a sense of malaise or even fainting, the advice is a visit to a specialist to check the health of your heart and possibly set up the necessary treatment. Cardiac arrhythmias are a very varied set of rhythm disorders therefore the treatments are equally varied and depend on the type of arrhythmia present”.
“Atrial fibrillation is very widespread today in the population – continues Oliva – an frequently enough asymptomatic arrhythmia that causes an irregular, often accelerated heart rhythm, which can cause agitation, tiredness or breathlessness but also go unnoticed. This arrhythmia can, however, favor the onset of cerebral ischemia as it favors the formation of clots in the left atrium.”
for Massimo Grimaldi, director of Cardiology at the F. Miulli Hospital in Acquaviva delle fonti (bari) and designated president of Anmco, ”an early diagnosis is very crucial and in some cases can save a life or prevent a stroke. These patients will undergo the necessary checks and , where required, they will take oral anticoagulant therapy or undergo surgery to close the left atrial fibrillation. Transcatheter ablation of fibrillation has instead been shown to be able to improve the quality of life and prognosis of patients suffering from heart failure. And in the context of heart failure there are new pharmacological therapies which, thanks to the improvement of the metabolic structure, are able to increase life expectancy combine new implantable devices which, through pacing on the conduction tissue or thanks to the submission of high intensity energy, are able to improve the quality of life and prognosis of patients suffering from heart failure.”
“Another very important topic that we addressed during the Congress – concludes Grimaldi – is the prevention of sudden arrhythmic death which, although rare, can affect even very young subjects with apparently healthy hearts. Of great interest is also the recent acquisition on the possible treatment in young people of some bradyarrhythmias on a functional basis not through the implantation of a pace maker but through ablative transcatheter techniques. These are young subjects in whom there is an excessive functioning of the vagal system, i.e. the system responsible for slowing down the heartbeat.The operation is performed by eliminating vagal stimuli on some areas of the heart. If you want to make an automotive comparison,it’s as if you eliminated the speed limiter of a control unit.”
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Interview Between Time.news Editor and Cardiologist Expert on Arrhythmia Insights
Time.news Editor: Welcome, Dr. rossi! It’s a pleasure to have you with us today. As a leading expert in cardiology, particularly in the field of arrhythmia, coudl you start by explaining to our readers what arrhythmia is and why it’s such a significant health concern?
Dr. Rossi: Thank you for having me! Arrhythmia is essentially a disorder of the heart’s electrical system. It results in irregular heartbeats,where the heart can beat too fast,too slow,or just irregularly. This can vary greatly depending on where the electrical anomaly occurs in the heart. The types of arrhythmia can range from harmless extrasystoles to more severe cases like atrial fibrillation, which affects approximately one million individuals in Italy alone. Atrial fibrillation, while not immediately fatal, poses significant risks such as cardiac decompensation and cerebral ischemia if left untreated.
Time.news Editor: That sounds quite alarming, especially considering the prevalence of atrial fibrillation. At the recent Anmco Beat Life Rhythm congress, what key advancements in the treatment of arrhythmias were discussed?
Dr. Rossi: The congress was an excellent platform for sharing insights and advancements. We discussed the major strides we’ve made in electrophysiology and interventional arrhythmology over recent years. New technologies have substantially improved our diagnostic capabilities and treatment options. As an example, we have better ablation techniques that target specific areas causing the irregular rhythms, reducing the need for long-term medication in many patients.
Time.news Editor: It sounds like technology is playing a pivotal role in improving patient outcomes. Though,you mentioned earlier in your talk that uncertainties still exist in both diagnostics and treatment. Can you elaborate on what these uncertainties entail?
Dr. Rossi: Absolutely. While we’ve come a long way, we still face challenges in accurately diagnosing certain types of arrhythmia and understanding the best treatment protocols for them. Some patients may not exhibit clear symptoms or may have atypical presentations, making it difficult to determine the appropriate intervention. Additionally, as treatments evolve, so does the need for updated guidelines and training for healthcare professionals to ensure patients receive optimal care.
Time.news Editor: speaking of care, what advice would you give to readers who may be at risk for arrhythmia or who have been diagnosed with it?
Dr. Rossi: It’s crucial for anyone at risk, especially those with a family history of heart disease or existing cardiovascular conditions, to have regular check-ups with their healthcare provider. Pay attention to your symptoms—if you experience palpitations,dizziness,or shortness of breath,seek medical attention promptly. Lifestyle choices also play an crucial role; a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding excessive alcohol and caffeine can help improve heart health.
Time.news Editor: thank you, dr. Rossi, for sharing your insights. The advancements in treating arrhythmia are encouraging, yet it’s evident that awareness and proactive measures are vital. We appreciate your time today and look forward to the next developments in this important field.
Dr. rossi: Thank you! It’s been a pleasure discussing this vital topic. I hope we continue to make strides in both awareness and treatment for arrhythmias in the future.