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) Self-Care
Introduction
Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) is a condition where the heart suddenly beats much faster than normal due to abnormal electrical signals in the heart’s upper chambers. It may cause palpitations, dizziness, chest discomfort, and even fainting. Although not usually life-threatening, SVT can significantly affect quality of life.
Self-Care Strategies
1. Vagal Maneuvers (If Recommended by Your Doctor)
- Valsalva Maneuver : Hold your breath and bear down as if having a bowel movement.
- Cold Stimulus : Applying a cold pack to the face may sometimes help.
- Carotid Sinus Massage : This should only be done by a healthcare provider.
2. Lifestyle Modifications
- Limit Stimulants : Avoid excessive caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine, which can trigger episodes.
- Manage Stress : Practice relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing.
- Stay Hydrated : Dehydration can contribute to irregular heart rhythms.
3. Recognizing Triggers
- Maintain a symptom diary to identify what may be provoking episodes (e.g., stress, lack of sleep, certain foods).
4. Medications and Compliance
- If prescribed medications such as beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers, take as directed.
- Do not stop medications abruptly without consulting a doctor.
5. When to Seek Medical Help?
- If SVT episodes last longer than usual, cause chest pain, severe dizziness, or you feel faint, seek emergency care immediately.
Summary
Proper self-care, identifying triggers, and using prescribed treatments can help manage SVT. Always follow your doctor’s recommendations to improve quality of life and prevent complications.
Source recommendations
1. American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association/Heart Rhythm Society Guideline for the Evaluation and Management of Patients With Supraventricular Tachycardia
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/cir.0000000000000499
- https://www.acc.org/latest-in-cardiology/ten-points-to-remember/2017/03/07/23/36/2017-acc-aha-hrs-guideline-for-syncope
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/cir.0000000000000311
- https://www.jacc.org/doi/10.1016/j.jacc.2017.03.003
- https://www.acc.org/latest-in-cardiology/ten-points-to-remember/2018/11/05/15/12/2018-acc-aha-hrs-guideline-on-bradycardia
2. European Society of Cardiology Guidelines for the Management of 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.