Ventricular Tachycardia
Cavanagh Heart Center’s specialists are expertly trained to diagnose and treat ventricular tachycardia.
Cavanagh Heart Center electrophysiologists, specialists in irregular heartbeats, have earned a reputation of being experts in their field.
Our electrophysiologists treat patients from across the Southwest and also provide training to other physicians.
Ventricular tachycardia is a rapid heartbeat that originates in the ventricles. Left untreated, it can lead to ventricular fibrillation which can be life-threatening.
In emergency cases of ventricular tachycardia, electrophysiologists give an electric shock, called defibrillation, to restore an acceptable rhythm. To manage ventricular tachycardia, Cavanagh Heart Center electrophysiologists provide leading-edge treatments ranging from medication management to surgery.
Ventricular Tachycardia Symptoms
A typical adult heart rate is between 60-100 beats per minute. An adult with ventricular tachycardia has a heart rate of greater than 100-120 beats per minute. A person experiencing ventricular tachycardia may feel chest pain, light-headed, dizzy, or short of breath. They may even faint or lose consciousness.
Ventricular tachycardia can be diagnosed by an electrocardiogram (EKG) or by performing an electrophysiology study. These diagnostic tests are available at Cavanagh Heart Center.
Ventricular Tachycardia Causes
This is usually caused by a related heart condition such as cardiomyopathy, heart failure, myocarditis, or valvular heart disease. You may also develop tachycardia as a result of a heart attack or heart surgery. In some cases, the condition can occur without heart disease as a result of medications, changes in blood chemistry, changes in pH, or a lack of oxygen to the heart.
Ventricular Tachycardia Treatment
Ventricular tachycardia treatments vary. Most patients will require long-term treatment with medications. Sometimes medications can have negative side effects and your physician may recommend a minimally invasive surgical procedure as an alternative. Cavanagh Heart Center offers several treatments for tachycardia, some of which are not available at other hospitals.
- Medication management
- Ablation
- Cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) implantation
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