Inside the Heart’s Electrical System: What Every Patient Should Know

On this week’s Health Matters, pharmacists Paul White and Brad White welcomed Dr. Haider Al Taii of Aultman Deuble Heart & Vascular Hospital Cardiovascular Consultants to discuss disorders of the heart’s electrical system  .

Heart disease is often thought of as a “plumbing problem” — blocked arteries and reduced blood flow.

But many serious heart conditions are actually electrical problems.

Understanding the difference can help you recognize symptoms early and protect your long-term health.

🫀 The Heart Is an Electrical Organ

Your heart beats because of a precisely coordinated electrical signal.

• The signal starts in the SA node (your heart’s natural pacemaker)

• It travels through the atria

• Then down to the ventricles

• Creating the coordinated contraction we feel as a pulse

When that electrical system misfires, the rhythm becomes abnormal.

These abnormal rhythms are called arrhythmias.

Some are harmless.

Others can increase stroke risk or even become life-threatening.

Atrial Fibrillation (AFib): The Most Common Rhythm Disorder

One of the most discussed electrical disorders is Atrial Fibrillation (AFib).

What is AFib?

AFib occurs when the atria (the upper chambers of the heart) beat chaotically instead of in an organized rhythm.

Instead of a steady “lub-dub,” the heart may:

• Flutter

• Race

• Skip

• Or feel irregular

Symptoms to Watch For

AFib doesn’t always cause dramatic symptoms.

Some patients feel nothing at all.

Common symptoms include:

• Palpitations

• Shortness of breath

• Fatigue

• Dizziness

• Chest discomfort

• Reduced exercise tolerance

If symptoms are severe — especially chest pain, fainting, or extreme shortness of breath — emergency evaluation is appropriate.

Why AFib Is a Big Deal

AFib increases the risk of stroke.

Because the atria are not squeezing effectively:

• Blood can pool

• Clots can form

• A clot can travel to the brain

That’s why blood thinners are often prescribed.

Why Blood Thinners Matter

Blood thinners (anticoagulants):

• Reduce clot formation

• Significantly lower stroke risk

• Are often lifelong therapy depending on risk factors

If a patient cannot tolerate blood thinners due to bleeding risk, anemia, or frequent falls, alternative strategies may be considered — including device-based options.

Medication adherence is critical.

Missing doses can rapidly increase stroke risk.

Ventricular Tachycardia (VT): A More Dangerous Rhythm

While AFib starts in the upper chambers, Ventricular Tachycardia (VT) starts in the lower chambers.

VT is typically:

• Faster

• More unstable

• Potentially life-threatening

Common causes include:

• Prior heart attack

• Scar tissue

• Cardiomyopathy

• Structural heart disease

Treatment options may include:

• Medications

• Ablation procedures

• Implantable devices

Pacemakers vs. Defibrillators: What’s the Difference?

Many patients have questions about cardiac devices.

Pacemaker

Used when the heart beats too slowly.

• Helps maintain a safe minimum heart rate

• Improves symptoms like fatigue and dizziness

Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator (ICD)

Used when there is risk of life-threatening fast rhythms.

• Detects dangerous rhythms

• Delivers a shock if needed

• Can save a life in seconds

Living With a Cardiac Device: Common Questions

Patients frequently ask:

Can I use kitchen appliances like microwaves?

Yes. Modern devices are shielded and safe around standard household appliances.

Can I exercise?

In most cases, yes — with physician guidance. Staying active is important.

Can I fly?

Yes. Travel is generally safe.

Can I get an MRI?

Many newer devices are MRI-compatible, but always confirm with your cardiologist.

Are there restrictions?

Avoid strong magnetic fields and always inform healthcare providers about your device.

Lifestyle Matters More Than You Think

While some rhythm disorders are not preventable, lifestyle still plays a powerful role.

Helpful modifications include:

• Maintaining a healthy weight

• Managing blood pressure

• Limiting alcohol

• Treating sleep apnea

• Controlling diabetes

• Staying physically active

Electrical problems are often influenced by metabolic and structural heart stress.

When Should You Seek Medical Attention?

Seek urgent evaluation if you experience:

• Fainting

• Severe chest pain

• Sustained racing heart

• Shortness of breath at rest

• Stroke-like symptoms

Early intervention changes outcomes.

Final Takeaway

The heart is more than a pump.

It’s an electrical system that must fire in perfect sequence thousands of times a day.

If you feel:

• Irregular beats

• Unexplained fatigue

• Racing episodes

• Or new shortness of breath

Don’t ignore it.

Rhythm disorders are common.

They are treatable.

And early diagnosis can prevent serious complications.

Learn More

Dr. Haider Al Taii practices with Aultman Deuble Heart & Vascular Hospital Cardiovascular Consultants.

To hear the full discussion, listen to this episode of Health Matters with the Medicine Center Pharmacy  .

Thanks for listening today! We’d like to remind our listeners, if you suspect you have a medical issue, please contact your healthcare provider. Thanks to our sponsor Aultman Health System. As always, we thank our listeners for joining us on Health Matters with the Medicine Center Pharmacy. Have a healthy week and we’ll see you again next Friday right here on News Talk 1480 WHBC.