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What is supraventricular tachycardia (SVT)?

Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) is as an irregularly fast or erratic heartbeat (arrhythmia) that affects the heart's upper chambers. SVT is also called paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia. The typical heart beats about 60 to 100 times a minute. A heart rate of more than 100 beats a minute is called a tachycardia (tak-ih-KAHR-dee-uh).

Are vagal maneuvers a first-line treatment for supraventricular tachycardia (SVT)?

Vagal maneuvers are a first-line (first choice) treatment for supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) (fast heart rate) because they’re a low-risk, low-cost way to slow down a heart rate that’s too fast. They can have a 20% to 40% success rate for getting certain fast heart rhythms (more than 100 beats a minute) back to normal rhythms.

What is atrioventricular reciprocating tachycardia (AVRT)?

Atrioventricular reciprocating tachycardia (AVRT). AVRT is the second most common type of supraventricular tachycardia. It's most commonly diagnosed in younger people. Atrial tachycardia.

What should I do if I have a frequent episode of SVT?

If you have frequent episodes of SVT, your health care provider may prescribe medication to control your heart rate or restore a typical heart rhythm. It's very important to take the medication exactly as directed in order to reduce complications. Cardioversion.