Supraventricular arrhythmias, which affect the upper chambers of the heart, cause an accelerated heart rate due to problems with electrical signalling. The condition is also called supraventricular tachycardia, as tachycardia describes a heart rate that exceeds 100 beats per minute while at rest.
Supraventricular arrhythmias are not usually serious, but in rare cases they can cause complications like cardiac arrest in people with existing heart issues. Fortunately, this condition can be treated with medication, as well as other therapies.
In the event an underlying problem, such as dehydration, is accelerating one’s heart rate, treatment of that specific medical issue can help alleviate symptoms. However, some people develop supraventricular arrhythmia without a clear reason. In this case, doctors may recommend one of the following medications:
These medications are highly effective, but only when taken according to your doctor’s instructions. Additionally, ongoing monitoring is needed to ensure the medication is working as intended. As a result, you must attend all follow-up appointments as recommended.
Doctors can use other methods and procedures when treating supraventricular arrhythmia. You may be given instructions on how to deal with bouts of accelerated heart rate at home, such as lying on your back or coughing, which can sometimes correct abnormal rhythms.
As for medical treatments, carotid sinus massage is a doctor-performed technique that can reduce the heart rate by applying light pressure in proximity to the carotid artery. With more serious cases, surgeons can perform catheter ablation to create small scars on the heart to impede abnormal electrical signals. If these procedures are ineffective, patients may undergo pacemaker implantation, as these devices can correct abnormal heart rhythms on a continuous basis.