Paroxysmal Supraventricular Tachycardia
Paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT) is a heart rhythm disorder in which episodes of very fast heartbeat start and stop abruptly. The heart rate during an episode typically runs between 150 and 250 beats per minute. Most episodes last seconds to minutes; some persist for hours. PSVT itself is rarely life-threatening, but the sudden pounding sensation in the chest or throat can be alarming and may cause dizziness, breathlessness, or brief fainting.
Medicine used to treat Paroxysmal Supraventricular Tachycardia
What happens during an episode
PSVT occurs when an abnormal electrical circuit above the ventricles fires repeatedly, overriding the heart’s normal pacemaker. Common triggers include caffeine, alcohol, physical exertion, stress, or stimulant medicines, though episodes can start for no obvious reason.
For occasional or infrequent episodes, vagal manoeuvres such as the Valsalva technique (bearing down as if straining) can slow or stop an attack. For recurrent or prolonged episodes, antiarrhythmic medicines that work on the heart’s conduction pathways are used. Flecainide is one such medicine, acting on sodium channels to dampen abnormal impulses. Ongoing management often sits within the broader care of heart and blood pressure conditions.
If an episode lasts more than 30 minutes, causes chest pain, or you feel faint, seek medical attention promptly.