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health advisory Hospital Diseases 2007-11-12 20:38:26

I have previously been diagnosed with Supraventricular Tachyacardia 3 years ago, at the time I had the ablation done to stop the problem. My palpitations have started back up again and I am worried about taking any more action. I have seen a doctor and have been given Lanoxin and have not taken it. What are the risks if any involved with SVT if I choose not to have it fixed??

Answer:

You risk possible heart failure. Are you ready for that?

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SVT is relatively safe and most patients do not develop heart failure unless tachycardia is very frequent and prolonged.

The main potential risk in some people is a drop in blood pressure during the episode which may cause lightheadedness and possible fainting.

Treatment for SVT really depends on your symptoms and age. If it is infrequent then either close observation or drug therapy (eg. beta blocker, calcuim blocker) is recommended. If it is frequent or you get significant symptoms then consideration to a repeat EP study or drug therapy should be discussed with your cardiologist.

PS. digoxin (lanoxin) is used cautiously in SVT as there is a risk of accelerated accessory pathway conduction in WPW syndrome which can be dangerous. Please confirm with the cardiologist.

Regards.

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The biggest risk for SVT is the chance of a blood clot coming from the ventricles where it can form. The atrium are beating faster than the ventricles which allows the blood to lay there longer and possibly cause clots. Another risk is enlargement of the heart muscle itself leading to ineffective pumping of the heart or stretching of the heart muscle, therefore leading to heart failure.