Welcome to our Supraventricular Tachycardia reference page. This page provides a summary definition followed by introductions to our practice drills, quizzes, lessons and interactive guides.
Definition of Supraventricular Tachycardia
Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) is a cardiac arrhythmia characterized by very rapid or erratic beating.
SVT is also called paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT).
Types of Supraventricular Tachycardia
- Atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia (AVNRT)
- Atrioventricular reciprocating tachycardia (AVRT)
- Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome (a type of AVRT)
Symptoms
- heart racing/palpitations
- dizziness or light-headedness
- chest pain
- breathlessness
Supraventricular Tachycardia EKG Strip
The following table summarizes the key features of an supraventricular tachycardia EKG rhythm strip.
Rhythm |
Regular |
Rate |
Fast (150-250 bpm) |
P Wave |
Merged with T wave |
PR Interval |
Normal (0.12 sec) |
QRS |
Normal (.10 sec) |
Notes |
PR interval can be difficult to measure |