Could it be
supraventricular tachycardia (SVT)?
If you think you have SVT, it’s important that you learn all you can about it.
Suspect SVT?
Some people experience the symptoms of SVT without knowing they have it. These symptoms can often be dismissed, which only delays an accurate diagnosis.
Don’t be discouraged if you feel like this has happened to you. It’s okay to speak up and advocate for yourself by getting multiple opinions.
Common SVT misdiagnoses
- Panic attack or anxiety
- Atrial fibrillation
- Atrial flutter
Getting an SVT diagnosis can take up to
5years
SVT can be hard to diagnose. That’s because a doctor needs to observe your heartbeat during an episode. Since SVT starts and stops without warning, it can be difficult to catch it while it’s happening.
Diagnostic devices
In a healthcare setting
During an episode, healthcare providers can record your heart’s rhythm with an electrocardiogram (EKG, sometimes called ECG).
Between episodes
Cardiac monitoring systems can record your heart’s rhythm outside the healthcare setting. Examples include a Holter monitor, an event monitor, or an implantable loop recorder, which is a tiny monitor inserted under the skin.
Wearable devices
Wearable devices could alert you to SVT by keeping track of your heart rate. New pocket-sized models come with simple EKG/ECG technology to measure your heart’s rhythm.
Your care team members may change over time depending on your individual needs. Cardiologists, electrophysiologists, primary care providers, and nurses are the partners to help you understand and manage the condition.
Cardiologist
A cardiologist treats heart disorders and diseases. Your primary care provider may refer you to a cardiologist to confirm an SVT diagnosis or discuss SVT treatment options.
Electrophysiologist
An electrophysiologist is an expert in diagnosing and treating issues with your heart’s electrical system. They can perform tests to determine the specific cause of your heart rhythm abnormality. They also perform cardiac ablations.
Primary Care Provider PCP
A primary care provider (PCP) is your healthcare provider in non-emergency situations. They treat common conditions and help connect you with specialists.
Nurses and support staff
Nurses and support staff provide additional care such as obtaining past medical and cardiac history and monitoring your EKG (sometimes called ECG). They also provide education on managing the condition and medications.
Hear from others living with SVT
“If someone in your family has SVT, you have to be aware of their fears, challenges of getting around, and understanding where to go to get help.”
Stay up to date about SVT with education, resources, and support.
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References
1. Colucci, R.A. Am Fam Physician. 2010;82(8):942-952. 2. Milestone Pharmaceuticals data on file: PSVT Patient Journey Market Research conducted by Triangle Insights Group, 2018. 3. Milestone Pharmaceuticals data on file: PSVT Patient Journey Market Research conducted by Triangle Insights Group, 2020. 4. Yetkin, E. Cardiovasc Endocrinol Metab. 2018;7(2):34-36. 5. Al-Zaiti, S.S. Crit Care Nurs Clin North Am. 2016;28(3):309-316. 6. Milestone Pharmaceuticals data on file: PSVT Patient Observational Study conducted by The Blueprint Research Group, 2020. 7. Mayo Clinic. Supraventricular tachycardia. 2022. 8. Page, R.L. Circulation. 2016;133(14):e471-e505. 9. Helton, M.R Am Fam Physician. 2015;92(9):793-800. 10. Sequeria, N. Heart Rhythm. 2020;17(5 Pt B):854-859. 11. Bansal, A. J Arrhythm. 2018;34(2):129-138. 12. Cleveland Clinic. Cardiologist. 2021. 13. Cleveland Clinic. Electrophysiologist. 2022. 14. Wood, K.A. Eur J Cardiovasc Nurs. 2007;6(4):293-302. 15. Hafeez, Y. Paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia. StatPearls. 2023.