Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT)

Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) is a type of abnormal heart rhythm, or arrhythmia, that originates in the upper chambers of the heart (atria) and can cause the heart to beat too quickly.

Causes and Risk Factors

SVT occurs when there is an abnormal electrical pathway in the heart that disrupts the normal flow of electrical signals. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Abnormalities in the heart's electrical conduction system
• Stress or anxiety
• Caffeine or nicotine use
• Certain medications
• Underlying heart conditions, such as Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome
• Electrolyte imbalances

Symptoms

The symptoms of SVT can vary from person to person, but common symptoms include:

• A rapid or irregular heartbeat (palpitations)
• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Chest pain or discomfort
• Fatigue or weakness
• Anxiety or panic

Types of SVT

There are several types of SVT, including:

• Atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia (AVNRT)
• Atrioventricular reentrant tachycardia (AVRT)
• Atrial fibrillation
• Atrial flutter

Diagnosis

SVT is typically diagnosed using a combination of the following tests:

• Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG)
• Holter monitor
• Event monitor
• Echocardiogram
• Stress test

Treatment

Treatment for SVT depends on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause. Common treatments include:

• Vagal maneuvers, such as the Valsalva maneuver or carotid massage, to help slow the heart rate
• Medications, such as adenosine, beta blockers, or calcium channel blockers, to help regulate the heart rhythm
• Cardioversion, a procedure that uses electrical shocks to restore a normal heart rhythm
• Catheter ablation, a minimally invasive procedure that uses heat or cold to destroy the abnormal electrical pathway
• Lifestyle changes, such as reducing stress and avoiding triggers like caffeine and nicotine

Complications

If left untreated, SVT can lead to complications such as:

• Heart failure
• Stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA)
• Chest pain or myocardial infarction (heart attack)
• Fainting or syncope

Prognosis

The prognosis for SVT is generally good, especially with proper treatment and management. However, some people may experience recurring episodes of SVT, and in rare cases, the condition can lead to more serious complications.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT)?
A condition where the heart beats too quickly due to abnormal electrical impulses in the upper chambers.

What are the symptoms of SVT?
Palpitations, shortness of breath, chest pain, lightheadedness, and fainting.

What causes SVT?
Typically caused by a malfunction in the heart's electrical system, but can be triggered by stress, caffeine, or certain medications.

How is SVT diagnosed?
Through electrocardiogram (ECG) and sometimes holter monitoring or event monitoring.

Can SVT be life-threatening?
Usually not, but may lead to complications such as heart failure in people with pre-existing heart conditions.

What are the treatment options for SVT?
Vagal maneuvers, medications like adenosine, and cardioversion, as well as catheter ablation in some cases.

Can lifestyle changes help manage SVT?
Possibly, by reducing stress, avoiding triggers like caffeine, and getting regular exercise.

Is SVT more common in certain populations?
More common in women, particularly during pregnancy, and people with a family history of the condition.

Can SVT be prevented?
Not entirely, but managing underlying conditions and avoiding triggers may reduce episodes.

What is the prognosis for people with SVT?
Generally good, with most people able to manage symptoms and prevent complications with treatment.