Paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia
Alternative names:
PSVT
Treatment:
PSVT may resolve spontaneously. If symptoms occur or there are underlying cardiac disorders, treatment may be initiated in an attempt to interrupt the arrhythmia and convert to a normal sinus rhythm.
When their symptoms are mild, people with a history of PSVT can try a Valsalva maneuver to interrupt the episode. This consists of holding the breath and straining or coughing while sitting with the upper body bent forward. Splashing ice water on the face has been reported by some people as helpful.
A health care provider may massage the carotid arteries in the neck in an attempt to interrupt the arrhythmia. Caution--do not try this at home! This technique can cause severe slowing of the heart rate. Consult your health care provider.
Electrical cardioversion (shock) is successful in conversion of PSVT in many cases.
Medications that may be used to convert PSVT to a normal sinus rhythm include verapamil and adenosine. In children, verapamil is not used much, adenosine is much more common. Other medications that may be used include esmolol, Tensilon, phenylephrine, digoxin, procainamide, or others.
Surgical modification of the electrical conduction pathway (the pathways in the heart that conduct the impulse to contract) may be recommended in some cases. Pacemakers designed to interrupt (override) the tachycardia may be an alternative to surgery or chronic use of medications.
Expectations (prognosis):
PSVT is generally not life threatening unless other cardiac disorders are present.
Complications:
Calling your health care provider:
Call your health care provider if this is the first episode of PSVT and symptoms do not end spontaneously in a few minutes.
Call your health care provider if you have a history of PSVT and an episode does not resolve with Valsalva maneuver, or if other symptoms accompany the rapid heart rate.
Call your health care provider if symptoms recur frequently, or new symptoms develop.
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