Early Warning Signs Of Heart Failure

Irregular Heartbeat

Heart rhythm abnormalities are particularly common in individuals with congestive heart failure. The patient may feel as though their heart is pounding or racing, and fluttering sensations could occur as well. Some patients experience skipped heartbeats. If these symptoms occur, the patient should see their cardiologist as soon as possible. The cardiologist will check the patient's pulse in several locations, and they will listen to the patient's heartbeat with a stethoscope. An electrocardiogram may be performed, and some patients will need to have an echocardiogram. Doctors might ask the patient to wear a portable Holter monitor at home for a few days. The monitor records the electrical activity of the patient's heart. A tilt table test and a stress test might be recommended in certain cases. Medications can help control an irregular heartbeat, and doctors may advise patients to have an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator. Cardiac resynchronization therapy (biventricular pacing) could also be considered.

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