Diagnosis and Management of Paroxysmal Supraventricular Tachycardia
Feb 20, 2024
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Learn about the diagnosis and management of Paroxysmal Supraventricular Tachycardia (PSVT) with insights on distinguishing it from Sinus Tachycardia, utilizing wearable ECG devices, and the diverse patient populations affected by PSVT requiring specialized care.
PSVT, a sudden onset tachycardia, presents varied symptoms in patients, ranging from palpitations in the chest, rapid pulse, to sensations of breathlessness and lightheadedness. Episodes can last from seconds to minutes or even extend to a day, impacting patients' daily activities. Contrary to sinus tachycardia driven by external factors, PSVT originates from abnormal heart rhythms, often involving the atria or AV nodal tissues.
Diagnosing PSVT with ECG and Wearable Devices
Electrocardiograms (ECG) remain the primary tool for confirming PSVT diagnosis, enabling healthcare providers to determine the specific arrhythmia. In addition to traditional ECGs, wearable devices offer a convenient method for patients to monitor their heart rhythms. While wearable devices provide valuable data, their reliance on algorithm analysis for accurate diagnoses necessitates further validation.
Management Strategies for PSVT Patients
Managing PSVT involves vagal maneuvers for self-termination of episodes, followed by medication like beta blockers or calcium channel blockers for symptomatic relief. Adenosine, administered intravenously, plays a crucial role in halting SVTs by briefly blocking AV nodal conduction. Catheter ablation, a common procedure for frequent PSVT episodes, disrupts the abnormal electrical circuit in the heart using thermal energy, often offering a long-term solution with a high success rate and minimal complications.
Paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT) is a sudden-onset tachyarrhythmia that can cause palpitations, chest discomfort, and dyspnea. JAMA Associate Editor David Simel, MD, MHS, discusses the diagnosis and treatment of patients with PSVT with author Paul Zei, MD, of Harvard University. Related Content: