Supraventricular Arrhythmias

Key facts

• Supraventricular arrhythmias start in the upper chambers of the heart (the atria or the AV node) rather than the ventricles.
• The most common type, supraventricular tachycardia, makes the heart suddenly race to 150-250 beats per minute, then stop just as abruptly; most episodes are not life-threatening.
• Episodes bring sudden, rapid, regular palpitations, a pounding or fluttering chest, lightheadedness, and sometimes breathlessness or chest tightness.
• Verapamil, a calcium-channel blocker, slows conduction through the AV node and is a standard treatment for recurrent episodes.

What an episode feels like

The hallmark is an abrupt onset of rapid, regular palpitations. Other common sensations include a pounding or fluttering in the chest, lightheadedness, shortness of breath, and mild chest tightness. Episodes can last seconds or hours. Some people feel completely normal between attacks; others notice episodes are triggered by caffeine, alcohol, stress, or lack of sleep.

Slowing and controlling the rhythm

Treatment aims either to stop an acute episode or to reduce how often episodes recur. Calcium-channel blockers such as verapamil work by slowing electrical conduction through the AV node, interrupting the re-entry circuit that drives most of these arrhythmias. Longer-term rhythm management may also draw on other medicines within the broader heart and blood pressure category, chosen according to the specific arrhythmia and a person's overall cardiac health.

When to seek prompt care

Seek prompt medical attention if palpitations come with fainting, severe chest pain, or difficulty breathing. These combinations point to something beyond a routine episode and need same-day assessment rather than a wait-and-see approach.

This page is educational and does not replace advice from a doctor or pharmacist who knows your health history.