Electrical cardioversion is a quick and efficient procedure that corrects the irregular rhythm of the heart. A machine and adhesive patches (electrodes) deliver low-dose shock energy to the chest to control an abnormal heart rhythm such as atrial flutter. Sometimes, heart rhythm symptoms are so severe that electrical cardioversion is done in the emergency room.

Primarily, electrical cardioversion is performed to treat a rapid heartbeat, a condition known as tachycardia, and fibrillation, which is a fast, irregular heartbeat that leads to blood clot formation in the heart.

How do you carry out electrical cardioversion?

First, Dr Hassen places sticky patches (electrodes) on your chest and back. Wires help attach the sensors to a machine. The purpose of a cardioversion machine is to monitor and measure your heart rhythm. At the same time, low-level shocks are delivered to the heart to correct an abnormal heart rhythm.

After electrical cardioversion, doctors and nurses monitor your vital signs for at least an hour. However, you may feel tired and confused, which is why you will need someone to drive you home once the procedure is complete. Usually, after the electrical cardioversion, Dr Hassen prescribes blood thinners to prevent blood clots from developing.

The results from electrical cardioversion are phenomenal because the system works to restore the heart’s rhythm. However, you may require additional procedures to maintain the steady pace of the heart; Dr Hassen will discuss this with you at a follow-up consultation.

While electrical cardioversion is a safe and reliable procedure, you will need to implement changes to your lifestyle to maintain the heart's regular rhythm. For example, you need to keep your blood pressure low but not too low by limiting or altogether avoiding bad habits such as alcohol consumption and consumption of sugar, trans fat, saturated fat and harmful cholesterol. Limiting your stress, keeping your stress levels low and exercising and eating wholesome meals carry enormous heart-health benefits.