An abnormal heart rhythm called atrial tachycardia causes the heart's upper chambers to beat faster than normal, which is referred to as supraventricular tachycardia (SVT). This type of tachycardia originates above the lower chambers of the heart (ventricles). Athrial tachycardia can affect anyone, but it is more common among elderly people and people with heart conditions.
During atrial tachycardia, one or more cells in the atria take over the natural pacemaker of the heart and send electrical signals faster than normal. In the heart muscle cells, a chemical imbalance of sodium, potassium, and calcium can cause this to happen. Reentry is the process of sending electrical signals in a circular pattern around a scarred or damaged part of the heart, creating a loop of rapid impulses.
Some of the factors that can trigger or contribute to atrial tachycardia include:
Heart diseases, such as coronary artery disease, cardiomyopathy, heart valve problems, or congenital heart defects
Lung diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonia, or pulmonary embolism
Thyroid disorders, such as hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism
Electrolyte imbalances, such as low potassium or magnesium levels
Medications, such as decongestants, stimulants, or antiarrhythmics
Alcohol, caffeine, nicotine, or recreational drugs
Stress, anxiety, or panic attacks
Infection, inflammation, or fever
A person with atrial tachycardia may not be experiencing any symptoms and may discover the condition during a routine checkup or electrocardiogram (ECG). However, other people may experience one or more of the following symptoms:
Palpitations, or the sensation of a racing, pounding, or fluttering heartbeat
Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
Chest pain, pressure, or discomfort
Fatigue, weakness, or tiredness
Anxiety, nervousness, or fear
Sweating, nausea, or vomiting
The severity and frequency of the symptoms may depend on the duration and rate of the atrial tachycardia episodes. Some episodes may last for just seconds or minutes, while others may last for hours or days. The heart rate during atrial tachycardia may range from 100 to 250 beats per minute, much higher than the normal range of 60 to 100 beats per minute.
Typically, a doctor will ask about the patient's medical history, symptoms, and risk factors before diagnosing atrial tachycardia. The doctor will then perform a physical examination, listening to the heart and lungs and checking the blood pressure and pulse. The doctor may also order one or more of the following tests:
Electrocardiogram (ECG), which records the electrical activity of the heart and can detect the abnormal rhythm and its origin
Holter monitor, which is a portable device that records the heart rhythm continuously for 24 to 48 hours
Event monitor, which is a device that records the heart rhythm only when the patient feels symptoms or presses a button
Echocardiogram, which uses sound waves to create images of the heart and can show the structure and function of the heart chambers and valves
Chest X-ray, which can show the size and shape of the heart and lungs and can rule out other causes of symptoms
Blood tests, which can measure the levels of electrolytes, thyroid hormones, and other substances that may affect the heart rhythm
Electrophysiology study, which is an invasive test that involves inserting catheters into the heart and stimulating the heart with electrical impulses to map the abnormal circuit and pinpoint the source of the arrhythmia
As well as the patient's overall health and preferences, atrial tachycardia treatment depends on the cause, type, frequency, and severity of the condition. The main goals of treatment are to restore the normal heart rhythm, control the heart rate, prevent complications, and reduce the risk of recurrence. Some of the treatment options include:
Medications, such as beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, or antiarrhythmics, which can slow down or regulate the heart rate and rhythm
Electrical cardioversion, which is a procedure that delivers a controlled shock to the chest to reset the heart rhythm
Catheter ablation, which is a procedure that uses radiofrequency energy or cold to destroy the abnormal cells or tissue that cause the arrhythmia
Pacemaker, which is a small device that is implanted under the skin and sends electrical impulses to the heart to maintain a normal rhythm
Surgery, which is a rare option that involves removing or isolating the part of the heart that causes the arrhythmia
There are some cases of atrial tachycardia that can't be prevented, particularly if they are caused by congenital or structural heart problems. However, some lifestyle changes and self-care measures may help reduce the risk or frequency of atrial tachycardia episodes.
Following a healthy diet that is low in salt, fat, and cholesterol and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
Drinking plenty of water and staying hydrated
Limiting or avoiding alcohol, caffeine, nicotine, and recreational drugs
Quitting smoking or using tobacco products
Managing stress and practicing relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga, or tai chi
Getting enough sleep and following a regular sleep schedule
Exercising regularly and moderately, but avoiding strenuous or excessive physical activity
Taking medications as prescribed and following the doctor's instructions
Monitoring the heart rate and blood pressure regularly and reporting any changes or symptoms to the doctor
Seeking medical attention promptly if atrial tachycardia occurs or worsens
In an atrial tachycardia, the heart's upper chambers produce a fast and irregular rhythm. As well as palpitations, dizziness, shortness of breath, and chest pain, it can also increase the risk of stroke, heart failure, and other complications. An ECG, Holter monitor, echocardiogram, and electrophysiology study can be used to diagnose atrial tachycardia. Medication, electrical cardioversion, catheter ablation, pacemaker, or surgery can be used to treat atrial tachycardia. Lifestyle changes can also prevent or manage it.
