The method of treatment depends upon the type and severity of the arrhythmia. Most nonsustained arrhythmias do not need treatment, although physicians may recommend making some lifestyle changes. These changes include:

Also, medications called beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers or inotropes (e.g., digoxin) may be prescribed. In severe cases, antiarrhythmics may be recommended. These medications should be monitored carefully to prevent any side effects, which can include increased or worsened arrhythmias. Patients on such medications are encouraged to learn how to take their own pulse so any abnormal rhythm will be promptly detected.

Sometimes more invasive treatments are helpful, including:

• Pacemaker implantation. For a slow heartbeat (bradycardia), the most common treatment is an electronic pacemaker. This device, implanted under the skin of the chest and permanently attached to the heart, delivers steady electrical impulses that stimulate the heart to beat at a healthy rate.
  
  

• Implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) implantation. An ICD monitors and, if necessary, corrects an abnormally fast or quivering heartbeat. These devices may be lifesaving for patients with ventricular fibrillationor ventricular tachycardia. Modern ICDs may also be programmed to pace the heart after an abnormal heart beat. 
  

  

• Cardioversion. A treatment to correct certain types of arrhythmia by converting an abnormal cardiac rhythm to a normal one. A defibrillator is used to deliver carefully timed and well-controlled electrical shocks to the chest wall. It may be used in the treatment of atrial fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia.
  
  
• Electrophysiology study with catheter ablation. This is a procedure in which catheters are introduced into the heart from blood vessels in the legs and/or neck and radiofrequency energy is used to very carefully destroy (ablate) the abnormal areas of the heart that are creating the arrhythmias.
  
  
• Left cardiac sympathetic denervation (LCSD). A procedure in which part of the nerves leading to the heart are removed to reduce the heart's control over the sympathetic nervous system. The sympathetic nervous system controls involuntary functions such as breathing and heart rate. LCSD is a potential treatment for long QT syndrome, which can cause the heart to beat extremely fast.
  
  
• Maze procedure. An open-heart surgery in which the surgeon creates a new pathway through which the heart’s electrical signals can travel. While it is a treatment option for atrial fibrillation, it is usually reserved only for patients who are having severe symptoms despite other treatments (e.g., medications, cardioversion and ablation).

Many arrhythmia patients are able to live normal, active lives. If after receiving diagnosis and treatment, symptoms such as excessive lightheadedness or fainting (syncope)  occur, patients are urged to consult their physicians immediately.