Paroxysmal Supraventricular Tachycardia (PSVT) (cont.)
How is paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT) diagnosed?
The diagnosis of PSVT is based upon interpretation of the heart rate monitor
and electrocardiogram. Sometimes the diagnosis is difficult because the rapid
heart rate resolves before the patient presents for medical care. In these
cases, where there is a recurrent pattern of palpitations, the care provider may
suggest a test known as a Holter monitor. This is a small device worn for 24 or
48 hours that records every heart beat and may give a clue as to the underlying
cause of the palpitations. If this fails to give direction, a 30-day event
monitor may be considered. Again, a small monitor is worn, but with this device
the patient triggers the recording when the palpitations begin.
How is paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT) treated?
Treatment for PSVT is directed at resetting the electrical conduction of the
heart.
Maneuvers to stimulate the vagus nerve and slow the heart may be the first line
treatment. These include straining as if to have a bowel movement or putting
cold water on the face. Otherwise, intravenous medications, like adenosine, can
be used to convert the heart to a normal rate and rhythm. Less commonly,
electrical cardioversion can be used to shock the heart into a normal electrical
pattern when other treatments have failed.
How can paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT) be prevented?
There are several measures that may help prevent PVST. Caffeine, alcohol,
over-the-counter cold medications that contain pseudoephedrine, and
smoking are
all associated with recurrences. Medications, such as
beta blockers,
calcium channel blockers, or
primary anti-arrhythmia drugs, can be used to control heart rhythm. An
electrophysiology study, a procedure similar to a heart catheterization but
focusing on the electrical system instead of the blood vessels, can identify
abnormal electrical pathways.
Radio frequency ablation can often be used to destroy short circuits to
prevent recurrence of PSVT. The aggressiveness of preventive measures depends on
the frequency and severity of the PSVT episodes.
Last Editorial Review: 2/27/2008
- Beta Blockers - Learn more about Beta Blockers, a drug that treats angina and other heart rhythm disorders, migraines, high blood pressure, panic attacks, and tremors. Generic and brand names are included in the article.
- Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) - Read about the Electrocardiogram (ECG, EKG) procedure used to reflect underlying heart conditions such as agnina, occurance of a prior heart attack or of an evolving heart attack, and more.
- Palpitations - Learn about palpitations (abnormal heart beats, too fast or too slow) and what causes them, such as exessive alcohol, caffeine, stress, and more. Information includes types, causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
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