Overview
Supraventricular tachycardia is an episode of abnormally fast heartbeat that starts in the upper part of the heart. Episodes can begin and stop suddenly and may last seconds to hours, often causing a sensation of the heart racing or pounding. It is usually not life-threatening but can be distressing and sometimes causes dizziness or breathlessness. Treatment can often control or cure it.
Symptoms
- Sudden rapid, pounding, or fluttering heartbeat
- Palpitations that start and stop abruptly
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Shortness of breath
- Chest discomfort
- Anxiety during episodes
- Occasional fainting
Causes & risk factors
- Abnormal electrical pathways in the heart
- Stress or strong emotion
- Caffeine, alcohol, or stimulants
- Certain medications
- Thyroid problems
- Sometimes no clear trigger
Treatment & self-care
Care includes identifying triggers, techniques to slow the heart during an episode, and, for frequent or severe cases, treatments such as a procedure to correct the abnormal electrical pathway. A licensed clinician, often a cardiologist or heart rhythm specialist, should evaluate episodes and plan management.
See a doctor urgently if
- You have repeated episodes of a racing heartbeat
- You have palpitations with chest pain, breathlessness, or fainting
- Your episodes last a long time or do not stop
- You faint or have severe symptoms — seek emergency care
This condition can be an emergency. If any of the signs above are severe or getting worse, go to the nearest emergency room now or call your local emergency number — do not wait for an online consultation.