Arrhythmia/Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT)

Supraventricular tachycardia is a cardiovascular arrhythmia induced by extremely irregular electrical conductive impulses of the heart arising from the atrium, leading to the heart beating too fast. Most often, this results in an excessively fast pulse originating from above the ventricles, usually beginning at over 150-250 beats per minute. Even though the events of the SVT are sudden, common symptoms can include palpitations, dizziness, and dyspnea. Although rarely life-threatening, repeated SVT episodes can affect an individual’s quality of life and can lead to serious complications like heart failure in some cases.

At FitwellHub, we provide Western-standard healthcare facilities in Pakistan, utilizing advanced diagnostics and innovative treatment strategies for managing supraventricular tachycardia (SVT). Our patient-centered care ensures excellence and sets a high standard in cardiac healthcare.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of SVT are:

• Palpitations: Palpitations, often referred to as rapid or fluttering heartbeats, are frequently caused by SVT episodes and can feel like a throbbing or hammering sensation in the chest.
• Dizziness or Lightheadedness: A fast heart rate can cause the brain to get insufficient oxygen-rich blood, which can cause lightheadedness, dizziness, and in severe cases, fainting.
• Shortness of Breath: Shortness of breath results from the heart’s inability to pump oxygen effectively, especially during stressful or physically demanding situations.
• Chest Pain or Discomfort: Some individuals may experience chest pressure or pain with an episode of SVT. This condition can be alarming and needs to be seen by a physician.
• Fainting (Syncope): Rarely, SVT can result in fainting because of a temporary lack of blood flow to the brain, especially if the heart rate is very fast.

When to See a Doctor

You need to see a doctor if you are suffering from frequent or prolonged episodes of a rapid heartbeat, palpitations, or any combination of the above symptoms. SVT is often manageable, but in some cases, it may require treatment to prevent complications. Early detection and immediate treatment can prevent the risk of heart attack. At FitwellHub, we provide comprehensive cardiac care to diagnose and treat conditions like SVT. 

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Causes

The causes of SVT include:

• Abnormal Electrical Pathways: SVT usually occurs due to abnormal electrical circuits in the heart, leading to a rapid heartbeat. These circuits may be present at birth or develop later in life.
• Heart Disease: Conditions like coronary artery disease, heart failure, or previous heart surgery can disrupt normal electrical signals, causing SVT episodes.
• Excessive Caffeine or Alcohol Consumption: High intake of alcohol or caffeine may stimulate the heart and trigger SVT, particularly in sensitive individuals.
• Stimulants or Medications: Certain drugs, such as decongestants, diet pills, or stimulants like nicotine, can trigger SVT episodes by stimulating the heart.
• Stress or Anxiety: Emotional stress or anxiety can increase the heart rate and trigger SVT, especially during heightened emotional arousal.

Risk Factors

The main risk factors for supraventricular tachycardia are:

Cause	Description
Age	SVT may occur at any age but is more common in younger adults and becomes less common with age.
Congenital Heart Conditions	Individuals born with heart diseases, such as Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome, have abnormal electrical pathways and a higher risk of developing SVT.
Thyroid Disorders	Hyperthyroidism, where the thyroid gland produces excessive thyroid hormone, increases heart rate and can trigger arrhythmias like SVT.
Family History of Arrhythmias	A family history of SVT or other arrhythmias increases the risk of developing SVT, possibly due to genetic factors.
Electrolyte Imbalance	Abnormal levels of electrolytes (potassium, sodium, magnesium) can disrupt the heartbeat, leading to SVT attacks.

Complications

If SVT is left untreated, then the following complications occur: 

1- Heart Failure

Recurring or chronic episodes of SVT may cause progressive weakening of the heart, and heart failure may develop if the heart cannot pump enough blood to the body.

2- Blood Clots

Although thrombosis is uncommon with an SVT, abnormal heart rhythms can cause it to occur, increasing the risk of stroke and other life-threatening conditions.

3- Fainting (Syncope)

A severe case of SVT can lead to dizziness and even syncope due to insufficient blood flow to the brain, particularly during severe SVT episodes.

4- Cardiomyopathy

Recurrent SVTs lead to cardiomyopathy, in which the heart’s muscle walls stretch or weaken due to continuous strain from the increased heart rate.

5- Reduced Quality of Life

Frequent SVT episodes may severely impact an individual’s ability to carry out everyday tasks, leading to fatigue, anxiety, and a reduced quality of life. 

Prevention

The following preventive measures are adopted to prevent the SVT:

• Avoid Triggers: Reduce SVT episodes by identifying and avoiding personal triggers such as excessive caffeine, alcohol, or stimulant drugs.
• Maintain Heart Health: Regular exercise, a heart-healthy diet, and controlling conditions like high blood pressure or high cholesterol can help reduce the risk of SVT and other heart issues.
• Manage Stress: Practice stress management techniques like mindfulness, meditation, or deep breathing to prevent SVT episodes triggered by anxiety or emotional stress.
• Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can disrupt electrolyte levels, so it’s important to stay hydrated to maintain heart health.
• Limit Caffeine and Alcohol: Reduce or avoid stimulants like caffeine and alcohol to minimize SVT triggers, especially for sensitive individuals.

At FitwellHub, we offer personalized heart health programs to help you manage and prevent conditions like SVT. Visit our help page for more information. 

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of SVT includes an examination and tests designed to observe the state of the heartbeat and detect abnormal rhythms:

• Electrocardiogram (ECG): The most common test for SVT, it records the heart’s electrical activity to detect rapid, abnormal rhythms.
• Holter Monitor: A portable device is worn for 24-48 hours that continuously records heart activity to detect intermittent SVT episodes.
• Event Monitor: Worn for a few weeks, it records heart activity only when the patient experiences symptoms, useful for diagnosing infrequent SVT episodes.
• Electrophysiological Study: Catheters are inserted into the heart through blood vessels to map electrical pathways and identify areas causing abnormal rhythms like SVT.
• Blood Tests: Help identify underlying causes of SVT, such as electrolyte imbalances, thyroid disorders, or other medical conditions.

FitwellHub provides advanced diagnostic services for the diagnosis of heart conditions and the management of SVT. Visit our lab today to book your tests!

Treatment

The purpose of treatment of SVT is to establish sinus rhythm, stabilize heart rate, and prevent recurrence. The following treatment options are used:

1- Vagal Maneuvers

Vagal maneuvers are physical maneuvers that cause stimulation of the vagus nerve to slow the heart rate. This can be achieved by coughing, bearing down, known as the Valsalva maneuver, or applying a cold towel on the face.

2- Medications

Medications such as beta-blockers and calcium channel blockers help in controlling the heart rate and prevent the attacks of SVT. Antiarrhythmic drugs may also be prescribed to make the rhythm normal.

3- Cardioversion

If medications fail to treat SVT, cardioversion is performed. It is a procedure in which a controlled electrical shock is given to the heart to start an appropriate rhythm again.

4- Catheter Ablation

Catheter ablation is a minimally invasive procedure involving the destruction of a small area of the heart tissue. It is responsible for the abnormal electrical signals using radiofrequency energy, providing a long-term solution for SVT.

5- Lifestyle Changes

Lifestyle modifications, such as reducing consumption of caffeine and alcohol, quitting smoking, and preventing stress. It helps to avoid future attacks of SVT.

Medications

The medications used in the treatment of SVT include:

• Beta Blockers: Beta-blockers such as metoprolol help to further decrease the heart rate. It also reduces the frequency of SVT episodes, alleviates symptoms, and avoids complications.
• Calcium Channel Blockers: Calcium channel blockers, like verapamil, slow the heart rate and relax the heart’s vessels. It also brings relief to rapid heart rhythms.
• Antiarrhythmic Drugs: Antiarrhythmic drugs like flecainide or amiodarone may be administered to restore the normal heart rhythm, and continued treatment prevents the recurrence of SVT.
• Anticoagulants: Blood thinners such as warfarin or rivaroxaban may be given to patients. Who experience recurrent or prolonged episodes of SVT to prevent thrombosis.
• Diuretics: Diuretics help remove fluids in the body, thereby reducing blood pressure and managing potential heart conditions that provoke SVT.

At FitwellHub, our pharmacy offers a wide range of medications for treating supraventricular tachycardia and related symptoms. Visit our pharmacy to explore available options and consult with our experts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)