Supraventricular tachycardia: symptoms, medications, etc. • hello healthy

Definition

What is supraventricular tachycardia?

Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) is a condition in which the heart beats too fast. So, blood doesn't get into it completely. SVT usually occurs when the heart beats 150-250 beats per minute (bpm), compared to its normal rate of 60-100 bpm. SVT disorders include arrhythmias from chronic atrial fibrillation (AFIB) to paroxysmal sinus tachycardia. Other disorders, also known as atrioventricular (AV) nodal reentry tachycardia (AVNRT) and atrioventricular reciprocating tachycardia (AVRT), include Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome.

How common is supraventricular tachycardia?

Both men and women can get SVT but it generally occurs in women. You can minimize the chances of suffering from SVT by reducing the risk factors. Please talk to your doctor for more information.

Signs & symptoms

What are the signs and symptoms of supraventricular tachycardia?

The most common symptom is palpitations. Other symptoms include dizziness, shortness of breath, fainting, chest pain, fatigue, sweating, and nausea. Symptoms can appear and disappear suddenly and last from a few minutes to several hours. There are many signs and symptoms not listed above. If you have complaints about symptoms, please consult your doctor.

When should I see a doctor?

If you have any signs or symptoms listed above and have any questions, please consult your doctor. Everyone's body has a different reaction. It would be better if you can discuss with your doctor to solve the best solution.

Cause

What causes supraventricular tachycardia?

Normally, the electrical signals that appear in the sinoatrial heart activate contractions against the atria. Then, it contracts with the ventricles. SVT occurs when an additional electrical pathway triggers a fast heartbeat. The causes include:

Medications (such as digoxin, theophylline)
Lung conditions (such as pneumonia)
Alcohol, caffeine, drugs, and smoking can increase the risk of SVT
One known type of SVT is decreased Parkinson-White syndrome (WPW)

Risk factors

What increases my risk for supraventricular tachycardia?

Certain factors can increase your risk of getting SVT:

Damage to the lining of the heart due to heart disease
Electrical pathways in the heart from birth (congenital)
Anemia
High blood pressure
Excessive exercise
Sudden stress is like fear
Smoking or drinking too much alcohol and caffeinated beverages
Abuse of illegal drugs such as cocaine

Medicines & Medicines

The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor.

What are my treatment options for supraventricular tachycardia?

People with STV without symptoms need no treatment. However, for those with symptoms, treatment includes vagal maneuvers or coughing and splashing iced water on the face.

Medications that can be used include adenosine and verapamil. Doctors can use electrical cardioversion (pacemaker) for emergency conditions or when other treatments don't work. With a pacemaker, the electric current released is directed to reset the rhythm of the heartbeat.

For SVT treatment, medications, pacemakers, catheter ablation and surgery can be used.

What are the usual tests for supraventricular tachycardia?

Doctors can make a diagnosis by listening to the sound of a heartbeat. The abnormal flow of blood through the mitral valve will produce a sound called a murmur. The sound of a murmur can be heard through a stethoscope. The timing and location of the murmur helps the doctor determine which valve is infected. Through a heart record, the doctor can confirm the diagnosis. Other tests that can be done include x-ray recording of the chest and electrocardiography (ECG).
Doctors can use a physical exam, check medical history, electrocardiography, laboratory tests, and x-ray records for further diagnosis. The doctor can use a Holter monitor to find out how often an SVT occurs within 24 hours. Doctors can also use an electrophysiology study (EPS) for a more accurate diagnosis.

Home remedies

What are some lifestyle changes or home remedies that can be done to treat supraventricular tachycardia?

The following lifestyle and home remedies can help you deal with this disease:

Limit alcohol consumption or not at all
Drink tea and coffee in moderation
Don't use illegal drugs
Exercise and have a healthy diet
Maintain a healthy body weight. Obesity can increase your risk of developing heart disease
Keep blood pressure and cholesterol at safe levels
Quit smoking. If you smoke and can't quit, talk to your doctor about programs and strategies to help you quit
Use medication with caution. Some cough and cold medicines contain stimulants that can trigger a fast heartbeat. Ask your doctor which medications to avoid
Control stress levels. Avoid unnecessary stress and learn to master techniques for dealing with stress in a healthy way
Watch your heart rate progress and understand what is causing your arrhythmia, for example your heart rate increases after drinking coffee.