Supraventricular tachycardia (or SVT) can be treated in several different ways depending on severity of symptoms, including at-home maneuvers, medications, and both outpatient and emergency procedures.
What Is Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT)?
Supraventricular tachycardia, or SVT, is a fast, abnormal heart rhythm that comes from the upper chambers of the heart.
While the heart usually beats between 60 and 100 times per minute, heart rates during SVT are much faster, ranging from 100 to 240 beats per minute.
What Causes SVT?
SVT is caused by faulty electrical signaling in the heart. Many times, these electrical abnormalities are present at birth but only become noticeable later in life.
There are several types of SVT. Some are hereditary, while others can be aggravated by other health conditions or lifestyle habits.
To learn more about the different types, visit upbeat.org/svt.
Symptoms of SVT
When SVT occurs, the heart rate speeds up and can cause symptoms that may become serious.
Call 911 or your local emergency number if you have a very fast heartbeat that lasts for more than a few minutes, or if a fast heartbeat occurs with any of the following symptoms:
- Palpitations
- Dizziness
- Fainting
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Heart pounding
- Feeling pulsations in your throat
- Sudden onset of a fast heart rate
- A sudden stop to the fast heart rate
Diagnosis
Your healthcare provider may use several tools to diagnose and evaluate SVT, including:
- Electrocardiogram (ECG)
- Heart monitor
- Echocardiogram
- Blood tests
- Chest X-ray
- Exercise stress test
- Electrophysiology study, which records the electrical activity of the heart
Treatment Options
Many people with SVT do not require treatment, but your care team will work with you to determine the best course of action.
Treatment may include medications, lifestyle changes, or a procedure called catheter ablation.
To find out more or locate a specialist in your area, visit UpBeat.org.