Atrial tachycardia
A form of supraventricular tachycardia (SVT)
Atrial tachycardia is a form of SVT, an abnormal heart rhythm (arrhythmia) that causes a sudden, rapid heart beat
What is atrial tachycardia?
Usually, the focus only fires intermittently (paroxysmal atrial tachycardia) but it can be more persistent, lasting for days or months, and may require treatment to stop it and restore normal rhythm.
Need to know
-
What are the symptoms of atrial tachycardia? icon plus
Symptoms of atrial tachycardia can vary from no symptoms at all to palpitations, awareness of a rapid heart beat and others such as:
- chest pains
- shortness of breath
- dizziness
Atrial tachycardia usually occurs for no apparent reason. However a number of reasons can be factors, and these may include congenital defects, valve problems, or a damaged or weakened heart muscle following a heart attack. Episodes can also be triggered by excess alcohol use or thyroid conditions.
-
How is atrial tachycardia diagnosed? icon plus
An electrocardiogram (ECG) is the most commonly used test to diagnose atrial tachycardia. This measures the electrical activity of your heart. Other tests include may include:
- an electrocardiogram (ECG) while you're exercising on a treadmill
- a Holter monitor test, where you'll wear an ECG device over at least 24 hours to track your heart's rhythm
- an electrophysiology study
- an implantable loop recorder
-
Potential treatment options icon plus
Treatment of atrial tachycardia is required if you're experiencing unpleasant symptoms or if a permanently increased heart rate is putting your heart at risk and increasing your risk of stroke. Your consultant will discuss your symptoms and treatment options to determine the best approach for you. In some cases, they may recommend treatment with medication or catheter ablation.
Our heart rhythm cardiologists
Our locations
From complex catheter lab procedures to diagnostic testing, we provide exceptional cardiac care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.
-
The Wellington Hospital Cardiac Unit
North Building
Circus Road
London NW8 6PD
-
London Bridge Hospital
27 Tooley Street
London
SE1 2PR
-
The Harley Street Clinic Cardiac department
35 Weymouth Street
London W1G 8BJ
-
Leaders in Heart Rhythm Care
The Wellington Hospital, North Building
St John's Wood
London NW8 6PD
-
The Harley Street Clinic Cardiac department
35 Weymouth Street
London W1G 8BJ
-
London Pacemaker and Defibrillator Centre
St Olaf House
27 Tooley Street London
SE1 2PR
-
The Lister Hospital
Chelsea Bridge Road
London
SW1W 8RH
-
The Harley Street Clinic
35 Weymouth Street
London W1G 8BJ
Book an appointment
Our team can help with any enquiries or you can make an appointment with one of our experienced consultants.
Call us today
020 7079 4344