Overview

Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) is a condition characterized by an abnormally fast heart rate originating above the heart’s ventricles. This condition can lead to symptoms such as palpitations, chest pain, and dizziness.

Causes

SVT can be caused by various factors, including:

• Abnormal electrical pathways in the heart
• Abnormal heart structures present at birth
• Heart disease
• Stress and anxiety

Symptoms

The symptoms of SVT can include:

• Rapid heartbeat
• Fluttering in the chest
• Dizziness
• Shortness of breath
• Fainting

Treatment

Treatment for SVT may involve:

• Medications to control heart rate
• Ablation therapy to destroy abnormal pathways
• Cardioversion to restore normal heart rhythm

Prevention

Some tips to prevent SVT include:

• Managing stress levels
• Maintaining a healthy diet and weight
• Avoiding excessive caffeine and alcohol consumption

FAQ

What is supraventricular tachycardia?

SVT is a condition characterized by a rapid heart rate that originates above the heart’s ventricles.

What are the symptoms of SVT?

Common symptoms of SVT include palpitations, chest pain, dizziness, and shortness of breath.

How is SVT diagnosed?

SVT is typically diagnosed through an electrocardiogram (ECG) or a Holter monitor test.

Is SVT a life-threatening condition?

While SVT can be uncomfortable and disruptive, it is usually not life-threatening. However, it may require treatment to manage symptoms.

Can SVT be cured?

SVT can often be managed effectively with medications or procedures such as ablation therapy.

What triggers SVT episodes?

Triggers for SVT episodes can vary among individuals but may include stress, caffeine, alcohol, and certain medications.

Can SVT be prevented?

While SVT cannot always be prevented, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and managing stress levels can help reduce the risk of episodes.

How is SVT treated?

Treatment for SVT may include medications to control heart rate, ablation therapy, or cardioversion to restore normal heart rhythm.

Are there any long-term effects of SVT?

In most cases, SVT does not cause long-term damage to the heart. However, frequent episodes may affect quality of life and require ongoing management.