Don’t miss these subtle heart rhythm symptoms, according to UTMB Health experts

When it comes to heart health, most people think about blood pressure checks or cholesterol tests—but your heart’s electrical system plays an equally important role. When it’s slightly off, your heart may not pump efficiently, and arrhythmias can sneak in.

That’s where cardiac electrophysiologists at UTMB Health provide advanced monitoring, diagnosis and treatment, so patients have comprehensive heart care under one roof.

What is a cardiac electrophysiologist?

A cardiac electrophysiologist, or EP, is a heart doctor who specializes in the signals controlling your heartbeat.

“Your heart runs on electrical signals, so think of it like your heart’s wiring,” UTMB cardiac electrophysiologist Dr. Muhie Sabayon said. “If the wiring is off, it can race, skip beats or slow down—sometimes without you noticing. We make sure those signals stay on track.”

EPs treat various arrhythmias, including:

• Atrial fibrillation: Irregular upper chamber beats, higher stroke risk
• Bradycardia: Slow heartbeat, can cause fatigue or dizziness
• Tachycardia: Fast heartbeat, may feel like palpitations
• Premature beats: Extra beats, felt as skipped or fluttering heartbeats
• Ventricular arrhythmias: Serious rhythms from lower chambers, potentially life-threatening

Patients are usually referred to an EP when a doctor notices irregularities, but they can also reach out as soon as symptoms appear. Subtle changes in your heartbeat can signal an arrhythmia, so knowing what to watch for is key.

Signs your heart may be out of rhythm

Arrhythmias don’t always make a dramatic entrance. Here’s what to watch for:

• Fluttering or pounding heartbeats
• Skipped beats or racing pulse
• Shortness of breath
• Lightheadedness or dizziness
• Extreme fatigue or fainting

“Even subtle symptoms can signal something serious,” Sabayon said. “A skipped beat occasionally might not seem like a big deal—but over time, it can lead to stroke, heart failure or other complications if unchecked.”

Routine care: The first line of defense

Early detection starts with your primary care physician. Regular checkups can uncover unnoticed changes. If something seems off, your PCP can refer you to UTMB’s heart rhythm specialists for targeted care.

Smart devices help patients stay ahead and signal when to visit the PCP.

“FDA-approved smartwatches can detect irregular heartbeats in real time,” Sabayon said. “If your watch flags something, don’t ignore it—bring it to your doctor. Early evaluation can be lifesaving.”

Heart-healthy habits

Regular checkups and your lifestyle are key to keeping your heart’s rhythm steady:

• Follow a heart-healthy diet
• Exercise at least three times a week
• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Manage high blood pressure, high cholesterol and sleep issues

“Even small changes can make a big difference,” Sabayon said. “The more you protect your heart daily, the less likely you’ll need emergency interventions later.”

Modern treatments bring peace of mind

For patients with persistent or complex arrhythmias, UTMB Health offers advanced treatments like catheter ablations, pacemakers, defibrillators and long-term rhythm monitoring.

“We’ve seen tremendous advances in safety, technology, and effectiveness,” Sabayon said. “Procedures are less invasive, recovery is faster and outcomes are better.”

Today, patients can live full, active lives despite a history of heart rhythm issues, and feel confident knowing UTMB provides comprehensive care from diagnosis to long-term management.

Take charge of your heart

Heart rhythm problems aren’t always obvious, so staying proactive makes a huge difference.

Schedule your annual checkup, monitor your heart health and contact UTMB Health for expert care.

The above story was produced by Multi Platform Journalist Chloe Chapel with Community Impact's Storytelling team with information solely provided by the local business as part of their "sponsored content" purchase through our advertising team.