Paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT) in cardiology is a type of abnormally fast heart rhythm that originates above the ventricles (supraventricular) in the heart.
Understanding PSVT
PSVT is characterized by sudden episodes (paroxysms) of rapid heartbeats. It is considered a type of arrhythmia, meaning an irregular heartbeat. The "supraventricular" part indicates the rapid rhythm originates from the atria or the AV node, which are located above the ventricles.
Key Aspects of PSVT:
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Rapid Heart Rate: During a PSVT episode, the heart rate typically ranges from 150 to 250 beats per minute, which is significantly faster than the normal resting heart rate of 60 to 100 beats per minute.
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Sudden Onset and Termination: PSVT episodes usually begin and end abruptly. These episodes can last from a few seconds to several hours.
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Origin: The abnormal electrical activity usually involves a re-entrant circuit in or near the AV node or an accessory pathway.
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Symptoms: Common symptoms include palpitations (a fluttering or racing feeling in the chest), lightheadedness, shortness of breath, chest pain, and anxiety. Some individuals may experience no symptoms at all.
Causes and Triggers:
While the exact cause of PSVT is not always clear, certain factors can trigger episodes:
- Caffeine and Alcohol: Stimulants like caffeine and alcohol can sometimes trigger PSVT.
- Stress and Anxiety: Emotional stress and anxiety can contribute to the onset of PSVT episodes.
- Certain Medications: Some medications, such as decongestants, can increase the risk.
- Underlying Heart Conditions: Structural heart problems or other cardiac conditions can sometimes be associated with PSVT.
Diagnosis and Treatment:
Diagnosis of PSVT typically involves an electrocardiogram (ECG), which records the electrical activity of the heart. Holter monitoring (a portable ECG) may be used to capture infrequent episodes.
Treatment options include:
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Vagal Maneuvers: These are simple techniques, such as coughing, bearing down (Valsalva maneuver), or applying an ice pack to the face, that can sometimes interrupt the rapid heart rhythm.
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Medications: Anti-arrhythmic drugs can be used to control the heart rate or prevent episodes.
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Catheter Ablation: This is a procedure where a catheter is inserted into a blood vessel and guided to the heart to destroy the abnormal electrical pathways causing the PSVT. This is often a curative treatment.
In summary, PSVT is a type of rapid heart rhythm originating in the upper chambers of the heart, characterized by sudden episodes of a racing heart, and can be managed effectively with various treatments.
