Paroxysmal Reciprocal Tachycardia is a medical condition characterized by episodes of rapid and regular heartbeats, typically above 150 beats per minute. It is considered a type of supraventricular tachycardia (SVT), which means that the rapid heart rate originates above the ventricles. The term "reciprocal" refers to the reciprocal relation between atrial and ventricular electrical activity during the rapid heart rate episodes.
During Paroxysmal Reciprocal Tachycardia episodes, abnormal electrical signals in the heart cause a rapid and irregular conduction of impulses between the atria and ventricles, leading to the heart beating faster than normal. Symptoms of this condition often include a racing or pounding heart, palpitations, shortness of breath, lightheadedness, and chest pain.
Paroxysmal Reciprocal Tachycardia can occur in individuals of any age but is more commonly seen in young adults. It can be triggered by various factors such as emotional stress, caffeine, alcohol, certain medications, and underlying heart conditions. Diagnosis is typically made through an electrocardiogram (ECG) to record the heart's electrical activity during an episode.
Treatment options for Paroxysmal Reciprocal Tachycardia may include vagal maneuvers, such as bearing down or coughing, to interrupt the abnormal electrical pathway. In some cases, medications called antiarrhythmics may be prescribed to help control heart rate and rhythm. In more severe or recurrent cases, catheter ablation, a minimally invasive procedure to destroy the abnormal electrical pathway, may be recommended. It is important for individuals with this condition to work closely with a healthcare professional to manage symptoms and minimize the impact on daily
