Paroxysmal Supraventricular Tachycardia
Paroxysmal Supraventricular Tachycardia: Understanding the Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT) is a type of fast heart rate involving abnormal heart rhythm. It is an abnormally fast heartbeat that starts suddenly and ends suddenly. Generally it is a harmless condition; however, in certain cases it can be a sign of a more serious problem.
Causes
The exact cause for PSVT is not known, but some known risk factors include:
- Obesity
- High-blood pressure
- Caffeine
- Alcohol
- Smoking
Symptoms
The most common symptoms of PSVT include:
- A rapid heart rate of more than 250 beats per minute (bpm)
- Palpitations (feeling like your heart is racing)
- Chest pain or tightness
- Fatigue due to lack of oxygen
- Difficulty breathing
- Lightheadedness or dizziness
Diagnosis and Treatment
PSVT is generally diagnosed with a physical examination and electrocardiogram. Treatment for PSVT focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing recurrence. Treatment options include medications, electrical cardioversion, and ablation. Medication options include beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and antiarrhythmic drugs. In some cases, a pacemaker or implantable cardioverter-defibrillator may be used to treat or prevent recurrence.
Conclusion
Paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia is a type of fast heart rate involving an abnormal heart rhythm. It is usually a harmless condition, however, in certain cases it can be a sign of a more serious problem. Risk factors include obesity, high-blood pressure, caffeine, alcohol, and smoking. Treatment for PSVT focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing recurrence with a combination of medications, electrical cardioversion, and ablation. Additionally, in some cases, a pacemaker or implantable cardioverter-defibrillator may be used to treat or prevent recurrence.