Explaining Arrhythmia & its effects on your heart health

Arrhythmia occurs when your heart beats irregularly. It may beat too fast, too slow, or follow an inconsistent rhythm, disrupting the heart’s ability to pump blood efficiently throughout the body.

It’s normal for your heart rate to change depending on your activity; your heart beats faster when you exercise and slows down when you sleep. However, if the irregular heartbeat happens too often or becomes severe, it might be indicative of a more serious health issue. LifeCare Diagnostic Medical Centre has prepared an article to go over everything you need to know concerning arrhythmia, irregular heartbeat conditions, and how to see medical consultation or choose the right health screening package for better health.

How Common is Arrhythmia?

In Malaysia, cardiovascular disease accounts for over 23% of all deaths, making it one of the country’s leading health concerns. While not all cardiovascular issues are caused by arrhythmia, abnormal heart rhythms are a significant and growing contributor to heart-related complications such as stroke and heart failure.

Globally, the numbers are just as alarming. According to the European Heart Rhythm Association (EHRA), 1 in 3 people worldwide is at risk of developing a serious heart rhythm disorder in their lifetime. The most common type, atrial fibrillation (A-fib), has risen dramatically from 33.5 million cases in 2010 to 59 million in 2019, with projections estimating a 60% increase by 2050.

Types of Arrhythmia

For most adults, a resting heart rate between 60 and 100 beats per minute is normal. However, the rate can be affected by factors such as stress, anxiety, hormones, medication and how physically active you are. An athlete or more active person may have a resting heart rate as low as 40 beats per minute.

Before understanding arrhythmia, it’s helpful to know your heart rate numbers. A simple way to estimate your maximum heart rate is 220 minus your age.

Achieving Your Target Heart Rate Zone for Moderate Exercise (by Age)

Age

Target Heart Rate Zone

Estimated Maximum Heart Rate

100-170 bpm

200 bpm

95–162 bpm

190 bpm

93–157 bpm

185 bpm

90–153 bpm

180 bpm

88–149 bpm

175 bpm

85–145 bpm

170 bpm

83–140 bpm

165 bpm

80–136 bpm

160 bpm

78–132 bpm

155 bpm

75–128 bpm

150 bpm

Note: These numbers serve as general guidelines and may vary depending on individual fitness levels and health conditions.
Source: Target Heart Rates Chart, American Heart Association

Heart arrhythmias are commonly grouped based on the speed of the heartbeat:

Tachycardia

A fast heartbeat (resting heart rate is greater than 100 beats a minute)

This occurs when your heart beats faster than normal at rest. Common types include:

Atrial fibrillation (A-fib)
Atrial flutter
Supraventricular tachycardia
Ventricular fibrillation
Ventricular tachycardia

Bradycardia

A slow heartbeat (resting heart rate is less than 60 beats a minute)

This means the heart is beating slower than normal. In some cases, it can reduce blood flow to the brain and body. Common types include:

Sick sinus syndrome
Conduction Block

What Causes Arrhythmia?

Various heart-related conditions, chronic diseases, lifestyle factors, or hormonal imbalances can cause arrhythmia:

Common Symptoms of Arrhythmia

Arrhythmia can manifest in many ways—some subtle, others more intense. The symptoms often depend on the type and severity of the irregular heartbeat, as well as your overall heart health. In some cases, arrhythmias may occur without any noticeable signs, while in others, they can be frightening and disruptive.

Here are some of the most common symptoms of arrhythmia that individuals may experience:

Chest Pain or Discomfort
Chest pain can feel like a pressure, tightness, or burning sensation in the chest. It may occur during or after an episode of abnormal heart rhythm. While not always a sign of a heart attack, chest pain linked to arrhythmia should be taken seriously, especially if it is sudden or severe.

Shortness of Breath
If your heart is not pumping enough blood to the body, it may lead to difficulty breathing. You may feel breathless during physical activity or even while at rest. This is a common sign of both atrial fibrillation and ventricular arrhythmias, and may be more noticeable when lying flat.

Sweating (Unexplained or Excessive)
Cold sweat or clamminess may accompany arrhythmia events. These episodes are typically the result of the body reacting to a drop in blood pressure or inadequate blood flow. If sweating occurs alongside dizziness or chest pain, it may be a sign that urgent attention is needed.

Dizziness or Light-headedness
A racing or erratic heartbeat can temporarily reduce blood flow to the brain, causing sensations of light-headedness or even fainting. If you find yourself feeling woozy, unsteady, or disoriented, it could be linked to an underlying heart rhythm disorder.

While these symptoms can also be associated with other health conditions, they should never be ignored—particularly if they appear suddenly or in combination. LifeCare Diagnostic Medical Centre encourages everyone to seek prompt evaluation if you show signs of arrhythmia.

How is Arrhythmia Diagnosed?

Diagnosing arrhythmia requires precise tools to evaluate your heart’s electrical activity over time. LifeCare Diagnostic uses advanced, non-invasive technologies for accurate detection and diagnosis.

Electrocardiogram (ECG)

An ECG is a quick, painless test that records the heart’s electrical signals. It’s often the first step in detecting arrhythmia during a clinic visit.

Holter Monitoring

If arrhythmias are sporadic, your doctor may recommend wearing a Holter monitor that records your heart rhythm continuously. These often come in two forms:

Traditional Holter Monitor: Worn for 24 to 48 hours, this wired device captures short-term fluctuations in heart rhythm.
myPatch® Holter Monitor: A modern, wireless, waterproof, and mobile-accessible solution that can be worn for 1 to 14 days, allowing for greater comfort and extended monitoring—even during daily activities like showering or light exercise.

Event Recorder

This device is similar to a Holter monitor but is used for longer periods. You activate it when you feel symptoms, helping capture irregular events that may not appear during short-term tests.

When to See a Doctor

You should consult a doctor if you:

01

Regularly feel like your heart is skipping beats, racing, or beating unusually slow

02

Experience unexplained fainting spells, light-headedness, or dizziness

03

Have persistent chest pain or pressure

04

Notice worsening fatigue, especially with activity

05

Have a known history of heart disease or a family history of arrhythmias

LifeCare Diagnostic Medical Centre offers comprehensive assessments designed to evaluate overall cardiovascular health and to detect problems such as arrhythmia. This, and many others, are covered by the various health screening packages at LifeCare Diagnostic.

Early detection and management can significantly reduce your risk of complications like stroke, heart failure, or sudden cardiac arrest.

Treatment and Management Options

Arrhythmia treatment depends on the type, severity, and underlying cause of the condition. Management may involve one or more of the following:

Lifestyle Changes: Reducing caffeine and alcohol intake, quitting smoking, managing stress, and treating sleep apnea can help regulate heart rhythm.
Medications: Anti-arrhythmic drugs, beta-blockers, or anticoagulants (blood thinners) may be prescribed to control heart rate or reduce stroke risk.
Medical Procedures:
- Catheter ablation – Destroys small areas of heart tissue that cause irregular signals.
- Pacemaker – Helps regulate slow heartbeats.
- Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) – Used for patients at risk of life-threatening arrhythmias.
Ongoing Monitoring: Routine check-ups and continuous heart health monitoring are essential to track treatment progress and detect changes in rhythm patterns.

Seeking treatment starts with understanding your condition. Get an expert opinion through a medical consultation before committing to any one management option.

Prevention and Living with Arrhythmia

While arrhythmia cannot be prevented entirely, many are manageable through lifestyle and medical care. Here’s how to live well with the condition:

Heart-Healthy Diets
Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3s

Exercise regularly
Always push your limits to achieve better health – as approved by your healthcare provider, if you have a condition

Limit Stimulants
Avoid taking excessive amounts of caffeine, alcohol, and certain medications

Key Health Indicators
Monitor blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels

Manage Stress
Make use of breathing techniques, yoga, or counselling

Commitment To Treatment
Stick to your treatment plan and attend follow-up appointments

Be Aware
Know your triggers, track symptoms, and seek help when changes occur

Living with arrhythmia is not about restriction—it’s about balance and smart decision-making. With the right care, many individuals lead full, active lives.

Living By The Heartbeat

Recognising the symptoms, understanding the causes, and getting diagnosed early are critical steps in protecting your heart health.

LifeCare Diagnostic Medical Centre is committed to providing accurate testing, expert consultation, and personalised treatment plans to help you take control of your health – from your head to your heart.

If you are experiencing unusual sensations in your heart, your body, or want peace of mind, reach out to us to learn how we can help you through our comprehensive health screening options

Health Screening Gold Male Package

RM 1,788.00

Blood Tests

Arthritis Screening – Rheumatoid Factor
Blood Grouping – ABO
Coronary Risk Screening – hs-CRP
Diabetic Screening – Fasting Glucose & HbA1c
Full Blood Exam
Gastritis Screening – H-pylori
Hepatitis A, B & C Screenings
Kidney Function Test & eGFR
Lipid Profile
Liver Function Test
Syphilis Screening – RPR
Thyroid Screening – TSH

Cancer Markers

Colon Cancer – CEA
Gastrointestinal – CA72-4
Liver Cancer – AFP
Nose Cancer – EBV VCA IgA
Pancreas/Stomach Cancer – CA 19-9
Prostate Cancer – PSA

Urine Test

Full Urine Exam & Urine Microscopy
Urine Microalbumin

Imaging & Screening Tests

Abdominal & Pelvic Ultrasound
Basic Eye Assessment
Body Composition Analysis
Ear, Nose, Throat & Hearing Assessment
Exercise Stress Test & ECG
Chest X-Ray

Consultations

Dietitian Consultation
Physical Examination & Doctor Consultation
Includes: Refreshment

Notes

The promotion packages must be redeemed within 3 months from the date of purchase. The complimentary will be given during the health screening appointment, while stocks last.
Please wear clothing that allows easy access to the upper arm for blood-taking.
Fasting is required for a minimum of 6 hours before the check-up; however, during this fasting period, you are allowed to drink plain water. This requirement is specifically applicable to blood tests for lipid profile & fasting glucose, as well as abdominal ultrasound.
If you are taking hypertension medicine, please continue to do so before your visit.
If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, kindly bring along your test results or reports for the doctor’s review and assistance in diagnosis.
The health screening process will take approximately Half Day (4-6 hours), depending on the specific tests you are undergoing.
Medical results will be available on the same day, along with same-day consultations with the doctor and dietitian to discuss your reports. If you prefer, you can reschedule your consultations for another day.
“Comprehensive Health Screening Packages” purchased online can be redeemed within 6 months from the date of purchase. Buy now and use it later.
To schedule an appointment, book your appointment via the LifeCare App only.
Download the LifeCare App: Download for iOS | Download for Android

Health Screening Gold Female Package

RM 1,988.00

Blood Tests

Arthritis Screening – Rheumatoid Factor
Blood Grouping – ABO
Coronary Risk Screening – hs-CRP
Diabetic Screening – Fasting Glucose & HbA1c
Full Blood Exam
Gastritis Screening – H-pylori
Hepatitis A, B & C Screenings
Kidney Function Test & eGFR
Lipid Profile
Liver Function Test
Syphilis Screening – RPR
Thyroid Screening – TSH

Cancer Markers

Colon Cancer – CEA
Gastrointestinal – CA72-4
Liver Cancer – AFP
Nose Cancer – EBV VCA IgA
Pancreas/Stomach Cancer – CA 19-9
Breast Cancer – CA 15-3
Ovarian Cancer – CA125

Urine Tests

Full Urine Exam & Urine Microscopy
Urine Microalbumin

Imaging & Screening Tests

Abdominal & Pelvic Ultrasound
Basic Eye Assessment
Body Composition Analysis
Ear, Nose, Throat & Hearing Assessment
Exercise Stress Test & ECG
Mammography (for ≥ 40 years old ONLY) & Breast Ultrasound
Pap Smear & HPV DNA Genotyping
Chest X-Ray

Consultations

Dietitian Consultation
Physical Examination & Doctor Consultation
Includes: Refreshment

Notes

The promotion packages must be redeemed within 3 months from the date of purchase. The complimentary will be given during the health screening appointment, while stocks last.
Please wear clothing that allows easy access to the upper arm for blood-taking.
Fasting is required for a minimum of 6 hours before the check-up; however, during this fasting period, you are allowed to drink plain water. This requirement is specifically applicable to blood tests for lipid profile & fasting glucose, as well as abdominal ultrasound.
If you are taking hypertension medicine, please continue to do so before your visit.
If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, kindly bring along your test results or reports for the doctor’s review and assistance in diagnosis.
The health screening process will take approximately Half Day (4-6 hours), depending on the specific tests you are undergoing.
Medical results will be available on the same day, along with same-day consultations with the doctor and dietitian to discuss your reports. If you prefer, you can reschedule your consultations for another day.
“Comprehensive Health Screening Packages” purchased online can be redeemed within 6 months from the date of purchase. Buy now and use it later.
To schedule an appointment, book your appointment via the LifeCare App only.
Download the LifeCare App: Download for iOS | Download for Android

Essential Heart Screening

RM799.00

Blood Tests

Arthritis Screening – Rheumatoid Factor
Blood Grouping – ABO
Coronary Risk Screening – hs-CRP
Diabetes Screening – Fasting Glucose
Full Blood Exam
Hepatitis A Antibody
Hepatitis B Antibody & Antigen
Iron Deficiency Test – Iron, TIBC, Ferritin, TSAT
Kidney Function Test
Lipid Profile
Liver Function Test
Syphilis Test – RPR
Thyroid Screening – Free T3 & Free T4

Cancer Markers

Liver Cancer – AFP

Urine Tests

Full Urine Exam & Urine Microscopy
Urine Microalbumin

Imaging & Screening Tests

Carotid IMT Ultrasound
Electrocardiogram (ECG)
Exercise Stress Test

Consultations

Dieitian Consultation
Physical Examination & Doctor Consultation
Includes: Refreshment

Notes

Please wear clothing that allows easy access to the upper arm for blood-taking.
Fasting is required for a minimum of 6 hours before the check-up; however, during this fasting period, you are allowed to drink plain water. This requirement is specifically applicable to blood tests for lipid profile & fasting glucose, as well as abdominal ultrasound.
If you are taking hypertension medicine, please continue to do so before your visit.
If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, kindly bring along your test results or reports for the doctor’s review and assistance in diagnosis.
The health screening process will take approximately Half Day (4-6 hours), depending on the specific tests you are undergoing.
Medical results will be available on the same day, along with same-day consultations with the doctor and dietitian to discuss your reports. If you prefer, you can reschedule your consultations for another day.
“Selective Health Screening Packages” purchased online can be redeemed within 3 months from the date of purchase. Buy now and use it later.
To schedule an appointment, book your appointment via the LifeCare App only.
📲 Download the LifeCare App: Download for iOS | Download for Android

Bangsar South

03 2241 3610

012 234 3610

Cheras South

03 8658 3688

011 2721 3620

Explaining Arrhythmia & its effects on your heart health

Table of Contents

How Common is Arrhythmia?

Types of Arrhythmia

Tachycardia

Bradycardia

What Causes Arrhythmia?

Common Symptoms of Arrhythmia

How is Arrhythmia Diagnosed?

Electrocardiogram (ECG)

Holter Monitoring

Event Recorder

When to See a Doctor

01

02

03

04

05

Treatment and Management Options

Prevention and Living with Arrhythmia

Living By The Heartbeat

Health Screening Gold Male Package

RM 1,788.00

Health Screening Gold Female Package

RM 1,988.00

Essential Heart Screening

RM799.00

Table of Contents