Arrhythmias

Condition Overview

Arrythimias are irregular or erratic heartbeats. Normally the heart beats at a steady pace. This changes with activity or rest but is almost always a regular rhythm. Abnormal rhythms may be slower than normal (called bradycardia) or faster than normal (called tachycardia).

Symptoms

Affected dogs may show anxiety, weakness, lethargy or even faint.

All symptoms +

Causes

Many things may cause irregular heart rates and rhythms, including increased potassium, hormonal influences, certain cancers such as hemangiosarcoma, and heart diseases such as cardiomyopathy.

Diagnosis

To diagnose these problems, your dog will need an EKG (electrocardiogram, sometimes called ECG) and possibly a cardiac ultrasound evaluation. Your veterinarian may decide to have your dog wear a special heart monitor for 24 hours if the abnormality is infrequent.

Treatment

Treatment may include various drugs to regulate the heart rate or rhythm. Some dogs benefit from having a pacemaker implanted.

Prevention

There is no prevention for this condition.

Support

Please contact your Veterinarian with questions regarding this condition.