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We provide our users the most up-to-date and accurate information on the treatment and prevention of cardio pathologies in accordance with current American and European clinical guidelines.
The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a licensed physician for diagnosis and treatment.
Understanding Ventricular Tachycardia (VT) on ECG
Introduction
Ventricular tachycardia (VT) is a life-threatening arrhythmia that originates from the ventricles. It is characterized by a fast heart rate, typically over 100 beats per minute (bpm), and can lead to severe complications, including cardiac arrest.
Recognizing VT on an ECG
An ECG (electrocardiogram) is used to diagnose VT by identifying its characteristic features: - Wide QRS complexes (≥ 120 ms) - Regular rhythm - Absence of P waves or P waves not related to QRS complexes - Monomorphic VT (uniform QRS morphology) vs. Polymorphic VT (varying QRS morphology)
Common Causes of VT
VT is often associated with the following conditions: - Coronary artery disease (CAD) , especially after a heart attack (myocardial infarction) - Cardiomyopathies , including dilated and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy - Electrolyte imbalances , such as low potassium or magnesium - Drug toxicity , including antiarrhythmics and illicit drugs - Genetic conditions , like Long QT Syndrome or Brugada Syndrome
Symptoms of VT
- Palpitations (fast and strong heartbeats)
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Syncope (fainting)
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- In severe cases, cardiac arrest
Management of VT
Emergency Treatment
If VT leads to hemodynamic instability (low blood pressure, unconsciousness), immediate: - Cardioversion (electrical shock) is required. - CPR if cardiac arrest occurs .
Medications for VT
- Antiarrhythmic drugs , such as amiodarone or lidocaine
- Beta-blockers to prevent recurrence
- Magnesium infusion for polymorphic VT (Torsades de Pointes)
Long-term Treatment
- Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) for high-risk patients
- Catheter Ablation to destroy abnormal electrical pathways
- Lifestyle modifications (avoid stimulants, correct electrolytes)
Conclusion
VT is a serious condition requiring urgent evaluation and management. If you suspect VT, seek immediate medical attention.
Source recommendations
1. American Heart Association (AHA) Guidelines for the Management of Ventricular Arrhythmias
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000000549
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29097320/
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001193
- https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/arrhythmia/about-arrhythmia/ventricular-fibrillation
- https://cpr.heart.org/en/resuscitation-science/cpr-and-ecc-guidelines/algorithms
2. European Society of Cardiology (ESC) Guidelines for the Management of Ventricular Arrhythmias and the Prevention of Sudden Cardiac Death
- https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Ventricular-Arrhythmias-and-the-Prevention-of-Sudden-Cardiac-Death
- https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/43/40/3997/6675633
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36017572/
- https://www.acc.org/Latest-in-Cardiology/ten-points-to-remember/2022/09/02/14/23/2022-ESC-Guidelines-for-VAs-ESC-2022
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26320108/
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If you or your loved ones experience any of these symptoms, you should consult a doctor in time. Remember that self-medication can be dangerous, and timely diagnosis will preserve the quality and life expectancy.
The heart is an organ that does not know how to "keep silent" if something goes wrong. Chest pain, shortness of breath, swelling, dizziness, and rhythm disturbances are the symptoms that require our attention. The best prevention of heart disease is careful attention to your health, regular checkups with a doctor, and a healthy lifestyle. Take care of your heart, and it will serve you for many years!
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