The condition, often referred to as paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia, is characterized by sudden episodes of rapid heart rate above the ventricles. Here is a brief overview of its symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
Causes
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The cause of PSVT is often abnormal electrical pathways in the heart, which cause rapid and irregular heartbeats.
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In susceptible individuals, stimulants such as caffeine, nicotine, or recreational drugs can trigger PSVT episodes.
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The onset of PSVT episodes is sometimes precipitated by emotional distress or anxiety.
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There is a possibility that PSVT is associated with underlying heart conditions such as atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, or Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome.
Symptoms
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Heart Rate Intermittent: When PSVT episodes occur, the heart rate suddenly rises to over 100 beats per minute, resulting in palpitations or chest pounding.
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Insufficiency of Breath: Rapid heart rate may cause insufficiency of breath or difficulty breathing.
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It is possible for individuals to experience chest discomfort or pain during episodes of PSVT.
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It is possible to experience dizziness or fainting during PSVT episodes because of reduced blood flow to the brain.
Diagnosis
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A PSVT diagnosis is typically confirmed by an electrocardiogram (ECG), which records the electrical activity of the heart during an episode.
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In some cases, Holter monitors can be used to record heart electrical activity over a longer period of time to capture episodes of intermittent PSVT.
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ECG: An ECG can be performed to identify specific locations in the heart where abnormal electrical pathways exist and to guide treatment decisions.
Treatment
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The vagus nerve can sometimes be stimulated by certain methods, such as the Valsalva maneuver or carotid sinus massage, which can sometimes assist in terminating PSVT episodes.
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It is possible to control heart rate and rhythm with antiarrhythmic medication during PSVT episodes or avoid future episodes with these medications.
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Electrical cardioversion may be performed if PSVT episodes are prolonged or symptomatic, in order to restore normal heart rhythm.
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The catheter ablation procedure may be recommended to individuals with frequent or severe PSVT episodes as a means of destroying abnormal electrical pathways within the heart.
Prevention
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The most effective way to prevent PSVT episodes is to identify and avoid triggers such as caffeine, nicotine, stress, and other substances that cause PSVT.
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In order to prevent recurrent PSVT episodes, it is important to take prescribed medications regularly as directed by a healthcare provider.
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Practicing stress-reduction techniques such as meditation or deep breathing exercises may help to prevent PSVT episodes in susceptible individuals.
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Keeping an eye on the condition and adjusting the treatment as necessary is crucial for regular follow-up appointments with a cardiologist.
