Supraventricular tachycardia

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Supraventricular tachycardia

Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) is a fast heart rate that begins in the upper part of the heart (atria), above the ventricles. Normally, the heart's electrical system precisely controls the heart's rhythm; in this condition, abnormal electrical connections cause the heart to beat too fast.

Most supraventricular tachycardias result from abnormal electrical connections (bypass tracts) in the heart that short-circuit the normal electrical system and cause an increase in electrical activity.

Supraventricular tachycardia may cause an uncomfortable feeling that the heart is racing, pounding, and/or beating irregularly (palpitations). Additional symptoms include feeling dizzy or lightheaded, near-fainting or fainting (syncope), shortness of breath, chest pain, throat tightness, and sweating.

Some supraventricular tachycardias do not cause symptoms and may not need treatment. However, if supraventricular tachycardia recurs, medications or a procedure called catheter ablation may be needed to correct the abnormal heartbeat.

Credits

Author	Jeannette Curtis
Author	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Editor	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Tracy Landauer
Associate Editor	Pat Truman
Primary Medical Reviewer	Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Last Updated	May 25, 2007

Last updated:	May 25, 2007
Author:	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman

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