Supraventricular Tachycardia

Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT) is a condition where the heart suddenly starts beating very fast due to an electrical problem in the upper part of the heart.

In simple terms:
The heart has its own electrical system that controls the heartbeat. In SVT, an extra or looping signal causes the heart to “race” — often 150–250 beats per minute.

These episodes usually:

• Start suddenly 
• Stop suddenly 
• Have a fast but regular rhythm 

People with SVT may notice:

• A rapid pounding or racing heartbeat 
• Palpitations (awareness of the heartbeat) 
• Dizziness or lightheadedness 
• Shortness of breath 
• Chest discomfort 
• Feeling anxious 

Some people feel perfectly fine apart from the fast heart rate, while others may feel quite unwell—especially if the episode lasts longer.

  How is SVT Treated?

Treatment depends on how often it happens and how severe the symptoms are.

1. Simple (Immediate) Techniques

Some episodes can be stopped with vagal manoeuvres (simple physical actions), such as:

• Bearing down (like straining) 
• Blowing into a syringe 
• Splashing cold water on the face 

These work by affecting the heart’s electrical signals.

2. Medications

Doctors may use medications to:

• Stop an episode 
• Prevent future episodes 

Common medications include:

• Adenosine – given in hospital to quickly stop SVT 
• Beta blockers (e.g.      atenolol, bisoprolol) – slow the heart rate 
• Verapamil – helps control heart rhythm 

Not everyone needs long-term medication.

3. Long-Term Treatment

If SVT happens frequently or is very bothersome, a more permanent solution may be recommended:

• Catheter ablation (see      below) 

What is a Catheter Ablation?

Catheter ablation is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat—and often cure—SVT.

Step-by-Step (Simple Explanation)

1. Access to the heart
       Thin tubes (called catheters) are inserted into a blood vessel, usually in      the groin, and guided up to the heart. 
2. Mapping the problem
       Doctors carefully study the heart’s electrical signals to find the exact      area causing the abnormal rhythm. 
3. Treating the source
       Once found, that small area is treated using:
   • Heat (radiofrequency ablation), or 
   • Cold (cryoablation) 

This creates a tiny scar.

1. Stopping the abnormal signal
       The scar blocks the faulty electrical pathway, preventing SVT from      happening again. We offer a range of minimally invasive procedures for heart disease, including angioplasty and stenting. These procedures are less invasive than traditional surgery and often result in faster recovery times and fewer complications.