Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT) is an abnormal heart rhythm characterized by a rapid heartbeat. Anxiety is a common emotional state involving feelings of worry, nervousness, or unease. This article explores the relationship between anxiety and SVT, as their symptoms can often overlap.
Understanding SVT
Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT) refers to a fast heart rate that originates in the upper chambers of the heart, specifically above the ventricles. Normally, the heart’s electrical signals begin in the sinoatrial (SA) node, acting as the natural pacemaker. In SVT, an abnormal electrical signal or circuit causes the heart to beat much faster than its typical resting rate, often ranging from 150 to 220 beats per minute.
These rapid heartbeats can start and stop suddenly, lasting from a few seconds to several hours. While SVT is often considered benign and usually not life-threatening, its symptoms can include a pounding or fluttering sensation in the chest, shortness of breath, dizziness, and fatigue.
How Anxiety Affects the Body
Anxiety triggers the body’s natural “fight or flight” response, a survival mechanism designed to prepare an individual for perceived danger. During this response, the nervous system signals the adrenal glands to release stress hormones, primarily adrenaline (epinephrine) and cortisol.
The cardiovascular system is particularly affected, with an immediate increase in heart rate and stronger heart muscle contractions. These responses can manifest as noticeable heart palpitations, a racing heartbeat, and shortness of breath, which are normal physical reactions to stress.
Exploring the Connection Between Anxiety and SVT
Anxiety does not directly cause the underlying electrical abnormality that defines SVT; rather, SVT originates from a pre-existing electrical shortcut or an irritable electrical pathway within the heart’s upper chambers. However, the physiological changes induced by anxiety can act as a trigger for an SVT episode in individuals already predisposed to the condition.
The surge of stress hormones, like adrenaline, can “flick the switch” that initiates an SVT rhythm in a susceptible heart. Furthermore, the symptoms of anxiety, such as a rapid heart rate, chest discomfort, and shortness of breath, can closely mimic those of SVT, making it difficult to distinguish between the two. This similarity often leads to confusion and heightened distress.
A feedback loop can develop where anxiety triggers an SVT episode, and the frightening experience of SVT then intensifies anxiety. While anxiety can cause a rapid heart rate (sinus tachycardia), it typically results in heart rates around 100 beats per minute and gradually tapers off. In contrast, SVT episodes usually involve heart rates well over 150 beats per minute and tend to start and stop abruptly. Differentiating between anxiety-driven tachycardia and SVT often requires an electrocardiogram (ECG) captured during the symptomatic period.
When to Seek Medical Attention
It is important to seek medical attention if you experience persistent or concerning heart-related symptoms. While many palpitations are harmless, certain signs warrant prompt evaluation by a healthcare professional. These include chest pain, severe shortness of breath, fainting or near-fainting spells, or severe dizziness accompanying a rapid heart rate.
A doctor can perform various tests to determine the cause of your symptoms, such as an electrocardiogram (ECG) to check the heart’s electrical activity. If symptoms are intermittent, a Holter monitor or event recorder may be used to capture heart rhythms over a longer period. These diagnostic tools help differentiate between anxiety symptoms, anxiety-triggered SVT, and other cardiac issues, ensuring appropriate management.