A detailed guide to understanding SVT, its symptoms, causes, and treatments.
SVT (Supraventricular Tachycardia) makes the heart beat too fast. It starts above the ventricles, which are the lower parts of the heart. This problem can stop the heart from pumping blood well, which leads to many signs. SVT has different types. These include Premature Atrial Contractions (PACs), Paroxysmal Supraventricular Tachycardia (PSVT), Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome, Atrioventricular Nodal Reentrant Tachycardia (AVNRT), Atrial Tachycardia, Atrial Fibrillation, and Atrial Flutter.
Signs and Reasons
People with SVT often feel:
- Pain in the chest
- A fast heartbeat
- Dizzy
- Short of breath
- Tired
- Heart pounding
We often don’t know why SVT happens, but it involves problems with the heart’s electric signals. Other things that might play a role are:
- Stress
- Caffeine
- Alcohol
- Smoking
- Other health issues
- Some medicines
How to Find Out If You Have It and Tests to Do
Doctors often use an electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG) to diagnose SVT. This test records the electrical activity of the heart. In some instances, they might use a heart monitor to keep track of the heart’s rhythm for a longer time.
Management and Treatment
To manage SVT symptoms, you can make these changes to your lifestyle:
- Cutting back on caffeine and alcohol
- Stopping smoking
- Getting a handle on stress
To treat SVT, doctors might suggest these medical options:
- Medications: Adenosine, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers
- Catheter ablation: A procedure to destroy abnormal heart tissue causing SVT
Prevention
You can’t always stop SVT episodes from happening, but healthy habits can lower your risk. These include:
- Keeping stress in check
- Staying at a healthy weight
- Working out
- Steering clear of triggers like too much caffeine or alcohol
What to Expect
Most people with SVT can lead normal active lives. With the right treatment, many see their symptoms get much better or even go away. Catheter ablation works well for some types of SVT and often cures the problem.
Day-to-Day Life with SVT
If you have SVT, make sure you:
- Keep an eye on your symptoms
- Get medical help if symptoms get worse or happen more often
- Stick to your treatment plan
- Live a healthy life
When you understand SVT and follow what your doctor suggests, you can handle the condition well and live a better life.
