COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, has led to many health concerns beyond respiratory illness. Its impact on the cardiovascular system, especially heart rhythm disturbances, is a common concern. One concern is the potential link between COVID-19 and supraventricular tachycardia (SVT), a condition where the heart beats abnormally fast.
Understanding Supraventricular Tachycardia
Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) is an abnormally fast heart rhythm originating in the heart’s upper chambers. While a resting heart rate is typically 60-100 beats per minute, SVT can cause it to suddenly rise to 140-250 beats per minute. This rapid rate results from faulty electrical signals, often involving extra pathways or re-entrant circuits.
During an SVT episode, individuals may experience palpitations, a sensation of their heart pounding or fluttering. Other symptoms include dizziness, lightheadedness, shortness of breath, and chest discomfort. A heart beating too quickly may not fill properly, reducing blood pumped to the body. While generally not life-threatening, SVT can be triggered by stress, exercise, fever, certain medications, or sometimes without a clear cause.
Investigating the COVID-19 SVT Link
The direct link between COVID-19 and new-onset SVT has been studied, distinguishing it from the general rapid heart rate often seen during acute illness. Many experience sinus tachycardia (a fast heart rate) during active COVID-19 due to fever, inflammation, or stress; this is typically a normal body response, not SVT. However, research indicates COVID-19 can increase the risk of specific arrhythmias, including paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT).
Studies show SARS-CoV-2 infection may increase PSVT risk, with one analysis reporting a five-fold increased chance within a month. This elevated risk can persist for several months, up to six months after initial illness. Severity of COVID-19 appears to be a factor, with more severe cases showing a higher likelihood of arrhythmias. While post-COVID palpitations are common, they are often linked to sinus rhythm or sinus tachycardia, not sustained SVT.
COVID-19’s Broader Impact on the Heart
COVID-19 can affect the cardiovascular system through several mechanisms, beyond direct viral damage. Systemic inflammation from the body’s immune response is a significant contributor to heart issues. This inflammation can impact heart muscle cells and electrical pathways regulating heart rhythm.
Another pathway involves direct viral entry into heart cells, potentially leading to myocarditis (heart muscle inflammation). Even without overt myocarditis, the virus can contribute to cardiac dysfunction. COVID-19 can also disrupt the autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary bodily functions like heart rate and blood pressure. This dysregulation can lead to persistent tachycardia and palpitations, sometimes categorized as Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) or inappropriate sinus tachycardia (IST) in long COVID. Hypoxia (low oxygen levels) and electrolyte imbalances during severe illness can also contribute to heart rhythm disturbances.
When to Seek Medical Guidance
Knowing when to seek medical attention for heart rhythm disturbances, especially after COVID-19, is important. While many post-COVID symptoms, including palpitations, may resolve, certain signs warrant prompt evaluation. If you experience a persistent rapid heartbeat that doesn’t subside, or if it’s accompanied by other concerning symptoms, medical consultation is advisable.
Symptoms requiring immediate medical attention include chest pain or discomfort, severe dizziness or lightheadedness, and fainting. Shortness of breath disproportionate to activity or sudden weakness can also indicate a more serious issue. Consulting a healthcare professional allows for proper diagnosis and management, ensuring heart rhythm abnormalities are identified and addressed.