Arrhythmia & ECG / Holter Monitoring
An irregular heartbeat, or arrhythmia, can range from a harmless occasional skipped beat to a serious rhythm disturbance that raises the risk of stroke or sudden cardiac events. Dr. Md. Nagib Mahfuz Khan offers detailed rhythm evaluation using ECG and Holter monitoring to reach an accurate diagnosis.
Symptoms
- Palpitations or a fluttering, racing, or pounding heartbeat
- Dizziness or light-headedness
- Fainting or near-fainting episodes
- Shortness of breath
- Chest discomfort accompanying an irregular heartbeat
Diagnosis
A resting ECG captures the heart’s electrical activity at a single point in time, while 24-48 hour Holter monitoring records the heart rhythm continuously to detect intermittent or exertion-related arrhythmias.
Treatment Options
- Medication to control heart rate and rhythm
- Blood-thinning therapy where stroke risk is identified
- Correction of underlying triggers (thyroid, electrolyte, or structural causes)
- Referral for pacemaker or ablation procedures when indicated
Getting the rhythm accurately diagnosed is the key step before deciding on the right treatment path.
Who Should Consult
- Frequent palpitations or a racing heartbeat
- Unexplained dizziness or fainting spells
- A known heart condition with new rhythm symptoms
- Family history of arrhythmia or sudden cardiac events
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all irregular heartbeats dangerous?
No — many are benign, but persistent or symptomatic arrhythmias need proper evaluation to rule out more serious rhythm disorders.
What is the difference between an ECG and a Holter monitor?
An ECG is a brief snapshot of heart rhythm, while a Holter monitor records continuously over 24-48 hours to catch irregularities an ECG might miss.
Will I need long-term medication?
It depends on the type and cause of the arrhythmia; some cases are managed short-term, while others require ongoing treatment.
Medical content review: Dr. Md. Nagib Mahfuz Khan, BMDC Reg. A-61144. Last updated: August 15, 2026. This information is educational and does not replace an individual medical consultation.
