Day of ablation for arrhythmia

Overview

Cardiac ablation is a procedure that uses heat or cold energy to destroy a small area of heart tissue that is causing an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia). On the day of ablation, you will go to the hospital, have the procedure done while you are awake or lightly sedated, and then be monitored for a few hours before going home.

Yes, cardiac ablation is a common treatment for many types of arrhythmia, especially when medicines do not work well.

It is used for people of all ages, including children and older adults, who have certain types of irregular heartbeats.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Heart palpitations (feeling like your heart is racing, fluttering, or skipping beats)
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Shortness of breath
• Chest discomfort or pain
• Fatigue or weakness

Symptoms in children

• Feeling tired or weak during play or exercise
• Complaining of a 'funny' heartbeat or chest fluttering
• Fainting or near-fainting episodes

Symptoms in older adults

• Confusion or memory problems due to reduced blood flow to the brain
• Frequent falls because of dizziness
• Unexplained tiredness that interferes with daily activities

Causes

Main causes

• The heart's electrical system sends out extra or abnormal signals, causing arrhythmia.
• Scarring from a heart attack or previous heart surgery can disrupt normal electrical pathways.
• In some cases, the cause is unknown.

Risk factors

• High blood pressure
• Heart disease (such as coronary artery disease or valve problems)
• Diabetes
• Obesity
• Heavy alcohol use or stimulant drugs like caffeine or cocaine
• Family history of arrhythmia

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have chest pain, shortness of breath, or fainting with your arrhythmia symptoms

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you notice new or worsening palpitations or dizziness
• If your arrhythmia symptoms interfere with your daily life

Diagnosis

Your doctor will check your symptoms, listen to your heart, and use tests to record your heart's electrical activity.

Tests that may be done

• Electrocardiogram (ECG) – a quick, painless test that records your heart's rhythm
• Holter monitor – a portable device you wear for 24 to 48 hours to track your heart rhythm during normal activities
• Echocardiogram – an ultrasound of your heart to look for structural problems
• Electrophysiology (EP) study – a test where small wires are guided into your heart to map the electrical signals

What to expect at your appointment

Before the ablation, your doctor will review your test results and explain the procedure. You may need to stop taking some medicines a few days before. On the day, you will be asked to fast (not eat or drink) for several hours. The procedure usually takes 2 to 4 hours, and you will be given medicine to help you relax.

Treatment

Cardiac ablation is a treatment for arrhythmia that aims to correct the electrical problem in the heart. It is usually considered when medicines do not control symptoms or cause side effects.

Self-care at home

• Follow your doctor’s instructions about stopping or adjusting your heart medicines before the procedure.
• Arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure – you will not be able to drive.
• Wear comfortable, loose clothing and leave jewellery and valuables at home.
• Bring a list of all your medicines (including supplements) to show the medical team.

Medical treatments

Doctors may try anti-arrhythmic medicines first. If these do not work well, or if the arrhythmia is dangerous, catheter ablation is often recommended. The procedure uses heat or cold energy to create tiny scars in the heart tissue that stop the abnormal signals.

When is surgery considered?

In rare cases, if catheter ablation does not work or if there are other heart problems, open-heart surgery (called maze procedure or surgical ablation) may be needed. This is more invasive and requires a longer recovery.

Living with this condition

After the ablation, most people return to normal activities within a few days to a week. You may have mild discomfort in the groin area where the catheter was inserted. Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for about a week unless your doctor says it is okay.

Lifestyle tips

• Stay active with light walking as soon as you feel able.
• Avoid alcohol and caffeine for the first few days to reduce stress on your heart.
• Watch for signs of infection at the catheter site (redness, swelling, pain, or fever).
• Attend all follow-up appointments so your doctor can check your heart rhythm.

Diet and exercise

Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit salt and processed foods to help control blood pressure. After recovery, aim for 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days, such as brisk walking or cycling, but always check with your doctor first.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Having an arrhythmia or undergoing a procedure can be stressful. It is normal to feel anxious or worried. Talking to your doctor, a counsellor, or a support group can help. Remember that most people have a successful outcome and return to normal life.

Prevention

Not all arrhythmias can be prevented, but a healthy lifestyle can reduce your risk. This includes managing blood pressure, eating well, staying active, avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol, and controlling stress.

Complications

If left untreated

• Stroke or blood clots from an irregular heartbeat
• Heart failure due to a fast, inefficient rhythm over time
• Worsening symptoms that affect your quality of life

Long-term outlook

For most people, cardiac ablation is safe and effective. Many find their symptoms go away completely or become much easier to manage. As with any procedure, there are some risks, but your doctor will discuss these with you beforehand. With proper care, the outlook is very good.

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