The information on this website is not intended for diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your physician for health concerns.

+90 850 321 50 00

Supraventricular Tachycardia — Acute Treatment Algorithm

Emergency management of narrow-complex tachycardia.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Kardiyoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Supraventricular Tachycardia — Acute Treatment Algorithm?

Narrow-QRS tachycardias are supraventricular in origin. AV-nodal reentrant tachycardia (AVNRT) is the most common form.

Vagal manoeuvres and intravenous adenosine are first-line therapy. If the patient is hemodynamically unstable, synchronised cardioversion is performed.

Symptoms

Sudden palpitations
Visible neck pulsation
Light-headedness
Chest tightness

Risk Factors

Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome
Female sex
Caffeine and alcohol
Thyrotoxicosis

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Sudden regular palpitations
  • Hemodynamic instability
  • Failure to respond to vagal manoeuvres

Treatment Methods

01
Modified Valsalva manoeuvre (legs raised at termination)
02
Carotid sinus massage
03
Adenosine 6 mg IV bolus, repeat with 12 mg if needed
04
Intravenous verapamil or diltiazem when adenosine fails
05
Synchronised DC cardioversion if unstable
06
Avoid AV-nodal blockers in pre-excited atrial fibrillation (WPW)

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Kardiyoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Kardiyoloji Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

Book AppointmentContact Us

Related Health Topics

Other articles from the same department you may want to explore.

Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

Kardiyoloji

Hypertension is a condition in which blood pressure readings remain above 140/90 mmHg; early treatment helps prevent serious complications.

Coronary Artery Disease

Kardiyoloji

Narrowing of the coronary arteries due to atherosclerosis can cause chest pain (angina) and heart attack.

Heart Failure

Kardiyoloji

Heart failure is a chronic cardiac condition characterized by shortness of breath, leg swelling, and fatigue.

Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction)

Kardiyoloji

A heart attack is a medical emergency; because heart muscle is lost by the minute, immediate intervention saves lives.

Atrial Fibrillation

Kardiyoloji

Atrial fibrillation is a common arrhythmia characterized by an irregular heartbeat and increased risk of stroke.

Heart Palpitations

Kardiyoloji

Palpitations are usually due to benign causes, but underlying cardiac rhythm disorders must be ruled out.

Heart Valve Diseases

Kardiyoloji

Valve stenosis or regurgitation increases the workload of the heart and, over time, can lead to heart failure.

Aortic Aneurysm

Kardiyoloji

Aortic aneurysms are often silent; early diagnosis allows treatment before rupture (a life-threatening tear).

Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.