Supraventricular Tachycardia

COR Healthcare Medical Associates

Cardiology, Interventional Cardiology & Electrophysiology located in Torrance, CA, Manhattan Beach, CA, San Pedro, CA, Redondo Beach, CA & El Segundo, CA

An abnormally elevated heartbeat, called supraventricular tachycardia, can develop from a number of causes. Though supraventricular tachycardia doesn’t always require medical treatment, a cardiac evaluation is needed to ensure you’re getting proper care and to prevent complications. The board-certified cardiologists at COR Healthcare Medical Associates in Torrance, San Pedro, Redondo Beach, Manhattan Beach and El Segundo, California, specialize in irregular heartbeats and can provide the diagnostic testing and treatment you need to understand and manage your supraventricular tachycardia. Call the Los Angeles office closest to you today or use the online booking tool to schedule a consultation.

Supraventricular Tachycardia Q & A

What is supraventricular tachycardia?

Supraventricular tachycardia is a medical term that describes an unusually elevated heartbeat. Normally, your heart beats 60-100 times per minute. If your heart is beating faster than what’s considered normal, then you could be experiencing supraventricular tachycardia.

In many cases, a rapid heartbeat is caused by a known trigger like certain medications, lack of sleep, or smoking. Medical conditions like thyroid problems can also affect the rhythm of your heart. In some cases, the underlying cause of supraventricular tachycardia isn’t known.

If left untreated, the condition can cause your heart muscle to weaken and place you at risk of heart failure.

What are the symptoms of supraventricular tachycardia?

Symptoms of supraventricular tachycardia vary in type and severity. It’s also possible to have no symptoms at all.

Common symptoms of supraventricular tachycardia include:

Fluttering in your chest
Palpitations
Shortness of breath
Fainting or near fainting
Dizziness
Sweating

Your symptoms can last a few minutes or a few days, but no matter the severity or frequency, you should have an evaluation if you’re experiencing an irregular heartbeat.

How is supraventricular tachycardia diagnosed?

The experienced team at COR Healthcare Medical Associates includes board-certified electrophysiologists who specialize in irregular heartbeats like supraventricular tachycardia. The team reviews your symptoms and medical history during an initial consultation.

To assess your heart health and measure the rhythm of your heartbeat, the team will suggest diagnostic tests like an electrocardiogram, echocardiogram, or a stress test. The team could also suggest an electrophysiology study, which involves inserting catheters through your veins toward your heart to gather additional diagnostic information about your heartbeat.

How is supraventricular tachycardia treated?

Treating your supraventricular tachycardia will depend on the cause and frequency of your rapid heartbeat. In many cases, treatment isn’t necessary. But if your rapid heartbeat is frequent or ongoing, the team could suggest treatments like:

Arrhythmia ablation
Electrical cardioversion
A pacemaker
Implantable defibrillators
Medications

The team works closely with you to develop a plan that restores normal heart rhythm and reduces your risk of complications.

To get the expert care you need from a full-service cardiology group, call COR Healthcare Medical Associates or request an appointment online today.

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