Supraventricular Tachycardia

Question 1

Define Supraventricular Tachycardia:

Answer 1

Abnormally fast heart rhythm arising from improper electrical activity of the heart, in the upper part of the heart. There are four main types.
Narrow Complex Tachycardia: Rate > 100bpm, QRS width < 120ms.

Question 2

Supraventricular Tachycardia: Types: 
1.
2.
3.
4.

Answer 2

Supraventricular Tachycardia Types:

1. Atrial Fibrillation
2. Atrial Flutter
3. Paroxysmal Supraventricular Tachycardia
4. Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome

Question 3

Supraventricular Tachycardia: Causes:
AVNRT
AVRT
JT

Answer 3

Supraventricular Tachycardia: Causes:
AV Nodal Re-entry Tachycardia
AV Re-entry Tachycardia
Junctional Tachycardia

Question 4

Supraventricular Tachycardia: Symptoms:
CP
B/D
P
S
F
AS

Answer 4

Supraventricular Tachycardia: Symptoms:
Chest Pain
Breathlessness/Dyspnoea
Palpitations
Syncope
Fatigue 
Asymptomatic

Question 5

Supraventricular Tachycardia: Investigations:
E
E
B

Answer 5

Supraventricular Tachycardia: Investigations:
ECG: 24 hour
Echocardiogram
Blood tests - thyroid function

Question 6

Supraventricular Tachycardia: Treatment:
Acute Management: VM + IV-A/V, ICD, CDV
Maintenance Therapy: BB or V
Lifestyle changes:

Answer 6

Supraventricular Tachycardia: Treatment:
Acute Management:
Valsalva Manoeuvre + IV-Adenosine/Verapamil
Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator
Cardioversion (DC Shock)
Maintenance Therapy:
Beta Blockers or Verapamil (not V if asthmatic)
Lifestyle changes: reduce alcohol, caffeine, smoking, and get rest.