Do you feel breathless after climbing stairs? Climbing stairs can leave anyone temporarily short of breath. Sometimes, it may just be simple fatigue after rigorous exercise or even a lack of fitness.
However, according to (Col) Dr Monik Mehta, consultant – cardiology, Manipal Hospital, Gurugram, in some cases, it may signal an arrhythmia.
Dr Mehta explained that breathlessness that occurs after minimal exertion, is disproportionate to the activity, or is accompanied by dizziness , palpitations, or chest discomfort should not automatically be attributed to poor fitness. It can sometimes indicate an underlying cardiac condition, including an arrhythmia or abnormal heart rhythm. Arrhythmias can affect how efficiently the heart pumps blood, Dr Mehta stressed. “When the heartbeat is excessively slow, fast or irregular, the heart may not deliver enough blood and oxygen to the body during activity. Depending on the type and severity, patients may experience different symptoms,” he added. Meanwhile, treatment, the cardiologist stressed, depends on the specific rhythm disorder and its severity. He explained, “While some patients benefit from medications that help control heart rate and rhythm, others may require advanced interventions. For more extensive blockages, Dr Mehta recommends bypass surgery (CABG) , which creates an alternate pathway for blood to reach the heart muscle, improving oxygen supply to the heart. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Explaining why, while medications and rhythm-control procedures remain the cornerstone of arrhythmia management, some patients may require treatment for underlying structural heart disease, Dr Mehta said, “ Angioplasty and stenting help restore blood flow in blocked coronary arteries by opening the narrowed vessel and placing a stent to keep it patent. “In patients with significant valve disease, valve repair or valve replacement surgery can correct abnormal blood flow through the heart and relieve strain on the cardiac chambers,” he added.
