Key Points about atrial tachycardia
- Atrial tachycardia is a rapid heart rhythm originating in the atria, often causing a racing heart or palpitations.
- It can occur in individuals with heart disease or as a result of external factors like excessive caffeine or alcohol.
- Symptoms can range from mild palpitations to severe dizziness or fainting.
- Diagnosis involves an ECG and possibly a Holter monitor to track irregular rhythms.
- Treatment often includes medications, cardioversion, or catheter ablation, depending on severity.
Common related conditions
Atrial tachycardia causes
Atrial tachycardia may be caused by:
- Heart disease or previous heart surgery.
- Lung conditions like COPD or pulmonary embolism.
- Stimulants, such as caffeine, alcohol, or certain drugs.
- Electrolyte imbalances, like low potassium or magnesium.
- Structural heart changes, including atrial enlargement or scarring.
Atrial tachycardia risk factors
The following factors can increase your risk of atrial tachycardia:- A history of heart disease, heart failure, or previous heart surgery.
- Chronic lung diseases, such as COPD or pulmonary embolism.
- Excessive consumption of alcohol or caffeine.
- Electrolyte imbalances or dehydration.
- A family history of arrhythmias or other heart conditions.
Atrial tachycardia symptoms
Symptoms of atrial tachycardia include:- A fast or irregular heart rate (typically over 100 beats per minute).
- Palpitations or the feeling of your heart racing or fluttering.
- Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fatigue.
- Shortness of breath, especially with exertion.
- In some cases, fainting or near-fainting episodes.
Atrial tachycardia diagnosis
To diagnose atrial tachycardia, doctors may perform:- An electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) to observe the heart's rhythm.
- Blood tests to check for electrolyte imbalances or other potential causes.
- A Holter monitor to track heart activity over 24-48 hours for irregular rhythms.
- A stress test or echocardiogram in some cases to assess heart function and detect underlying conditions.
Atrial tachycardia treatment
Treatment options for atrial tachycardia include:
- Antiarrhythmic medications to control heart rate and rhythm.
- Beta-blockers to help slow the heart rate.
- Cardioversion (electrical shock) to restore a normal rhythm in more severe cases.
- Catheter ablation, a procedure to target and eliminate the abnormal electrical pathways in the heart.
- Lifestyle changes, such as limiting caffeine, alcohol, and managing stress, to help reduce triggers.
When to Seek Care
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- A racing or irregular heartbeat, especially if accompanied by chest pain or shortness of breath.
- Sudden dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting.
- Symptoms of heart failure, such as swelling in the legs or difficulty breathing.
- Any new or unusual heart rhythms, especially if you have a history of heart disease or arrhythmias.