About-Cardio
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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.
Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT)
Introduction
Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) is a condition where the heart beats abnormally fast due to an electrical impulse originating above the ventricles. SVT episodes can start and stop suddenly and may last from a few seconds to several hours.
Symptoms
Common symptoms of SVT include:
- Rapid heartbeat (palpitations)
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Shortness of breath
- Chest discomfort or pain
- Fatigue
If you experience severe chest pain, fainting, or difficulty breathing, seek emergency medical care immediately.
Causes and Risk Factors
SVT is caused by abnormal electrical pathways in the heart. It can be triggered by:
- Stress or anxiety
- Excess caffeine or alcohol consumption
- Smoking
- Certain medications
- Structural heart abnormalities
- Hyperthyroidism
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of SVT includes:
- Electrocardiogram (ECG) – Records electrical activity of the heart.
- Holter Monitor – A portable ECG worn for 24-48 hours.
- Electrophysiological Study (EPS) – Identifies abnormal electrical circuits in the heart.
- Echocardiogram – Evaluates heart structure and function.
Treatment
1. Immediate Management
- Vagal Maneuvers: Methods such as bearing down or splashing cold water on the face can help stop SVT episodes.
- Medications: Intravenous drugs like adenosine may restore normal rhythm.
- Cardioversion: If SVT is life-threatening, electrical shock therapy may be needed.
2. Long-Term Management
- Beta-blockers or Calcium Channel Blockers: To regulate heart rate.
- Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): A procedure that destroys the abnormal pathway causing SVT.
- Lifestyle Changes: Reduction of caffeine, alcohol, and stress can prevent episodes.
Prevention
- Reduce stress through relaxation techniques.
- Maintain a heart-healthy diet and exercise.
- Avoid excessive caffeine, alcohol, and smoking.
- Follow up with your cardiologist regularly.
Conclusion
SVT can significantly impact quality of life, but with proper diagnosis and treatment, it can be effectively managed. If you experience frequent episodes, consult a cardiologist to discuss the best treatment approach.
Source recommendations
1. American Heart Association Guidelines for Supraventricular Tachycardia
- https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/arrhythmia/about-arrhythmia/tachycardia--fast-heart-rate
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/cir.0000000000000311
- https://professional.heart.org/en/science-news/-/media/028ddd505f514ea2b3a4e74bb72e3557.ashx
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001193
- https://professional.heart.org/en/science-news/guideline-for-the-management-of-adult-patients-with-supraventricular-tachycardia/Commentary
2. European Society of Cardiology Guidelines for Supraventricular Tachycardia
- https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Supraventricular-Tachycardia
- https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/41/5/655/5556821
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31504425/
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/cir.0000000000000311
- https://www.acc.org/Latest-in-Cardiology/ten-points-to-remember/2019/09/10/12/36/2019-ESC-Guidelines-for-Supraventricular-Tachycardia
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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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We monitor all innovations and changes in the field of cardiac disease treatment on a daily basis.
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Every 3-5 years, half of the scientific approaches to treatment in the field of cardiology are reviewed as a result of specialized scientific discoveries. With us, you don't have to wait these years to learn about the best ways to treat you and your loved ones.