SVT treatments options: What you need to know
Heather Rosdeutscher, PharmD, MHCI, BCMAS
Health Content Writer for Consumer Health Startups, Medical Affairs, Clinical Research, Customer Engagement, Informatics.
Has your heart ever started beating much faster than normal, even when you’re resting? Perhaps you felt dizzy, your chest tightened, or the heart rate monitor on your Apple watch alerted you to an increased rate.
These might be signs of supraventricular tachycardia. It can be quite common, occurring in 2 per 1,000 people. Women tend to be more likely than men to experience this condition. Continue reading to find out more.
What is SVT?
Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) is when your heart’s rhythm or speed isn’t normal. It’s usually caused by a problem with the electrical signals in the heart, primarily in the upper chambers.
SVT symptoms
Symptoms of supraventricular tachycardia may include:
SVT risk factors
Many experience these irregular heartbeats with no trigger; however, others may experience these due to:
SVT diagnosis
If you experience these symptoms, it’s best to contact your primary physician to have a test called an electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG). This test can determine what is actually going on in your heart and whether further tests are warranted.
Goals of SVT treatment options:
Treatment goals for SVT are to relieve symptoms, prevent recurrences, and minimize problems.
Most often these symptoms will dissipate on their own, but they can be worrisome if there are more serious underlying issues.
This is why it’s important to work with your doctor, who will help you decide the best course of management.
Treating SVTs by manual procedures
There are several supraventricular tachycardia treatments that don’t involve drugs. But they should only be performed under the care and advice of your treating physician.
Carotid massage involves lying on your back and extending your neck. If this is indicated by your doctor, they will instruct you to put pressure on the carotid artery which runs up the side of the neck for about 10 seconds to lower the heart rate.
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The Valsalva maneuver involves closing off your nose and mouth, then blowing or bearing down (like trying to poop or lift something heavy).
Another helpful procedure is to lie down, put an ice cold towel on your face, take some deep breaths, and cough to slow down your heart rate.
Treating SVTs by medications
If manual procedures don’t provide any relief, your doctor may prescribe a medication to help control unwanted symptoms of SVTs.
Here are a few examples, which work mainly to slow your heart rate:
It’s always important to take your medication exactly as prescribed by your medical provider. Report any side effects or unwanted symptoms as soon as possible so that you can manage them together.
Also, when taking any over the counter medications, talk with your pharmacist to make sure there are no ingredients that could also stimulate your heart rate.
Lifestyle changes
Certain lifestyle factors may improve your heart rate symptoms, such as:
Keep a journal to document when your symptoms arise. Sharing this with your doctor will help you manage outside triggers that may worsen your SVT.
There are also new wearable and portable devices that keep track of when your heart rate becomes abnormal. Ask your doctor for recommendations.
Conclusion
Paying attention to your body can help you identify and manage your supraventricular tachycardia. Please know that there are treatment options to help relieve your symptoms. Talk to your doctor to learn more about symptoms and treatments to manage SVTs.
Visit the American Heart Association website for more information about SVT.
References:
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