Paroxysmal Tachycardia is a medical condition characterized by sudden and recurring rapid heartbeats. The word is pronounced /ˌpærəkˈsɪzməl tækiˈkɑːrdiə/ (parr-uhk-siz-muhl tak-ee-kahr-dee-uh) using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) phonetic transcription. Paroxysmal means sudden and intense, while tachycardia means fast heart rate. This condition is often caused by irregularities in the electrical system of the heart. Treatment may involve medication or other medical procedures to regulate the heart's rhythm and prevent complications from occurring.
Paroxysmal tachycardia is a medical condition characterized by sudden and intermittent episodes of abnormally rapid heartbeat, known as tachycardia. Tachycardia refers to a heart rate that exceeds the normal resting rate. In paroxysmal tachycardia, the heart rate typically increases significantly and abruptly, exceeding 100 beats per minute. These episodes of rapid heart rate occur spontaneously and may last for a few seconds, minutes, or even hours, before spontaneously returning to normal.
Paroxysmal tachycardia is often caused by abnormal electrical signals in the heart, disrupting the normal pacemaker function and resulting in rapid and chaotic heart rhythms. This condition may be triggered by various factors, including stress, certain medications, excessive caffeine or alcohol consumption, and underlying heart conditions.
Symptoms of paroxysmal tachycardia can vary and may include palpitations (a racing or pounding sensation in the chest), shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness, fainting, and anxiety. However, some individuals with paroxysmal tachycardia may not experience any noticeable symptoms.
Treatment options for paroxysmal tachycardia depend on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. In some cases, lifestyle modifications such as avoiding triggers and reducing stress levels can help manage the condition. Medications may be prescribed to control heart rate and rhythm, or procedures like catheter ablation may be recommended to correct abnormal electrical pathways in the heart. In severe cases, implantation of a pacemaker or cardioverter-defibrillator may be necessary to regulate heart function. Regular monitoring and follow-up with a healthcare professional are essential for managing paroxysmal tachycardia effectively.
Recurrent attacks of rapid heart-action, with normal intervals.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "paroxysmal tachycardia" has its origins in Greek and Latin.
1. "Paroxysmal" comes from the Greek word "paroxysmos", meaning "irritation" or "excitement". It refers to a sudden and intense onset of symptoms or a temporary exacerbation of a condition.
2. "Tachycardia" is a combination of two Greek words: "tachys", meaning "swift" or "fast", and "kardia", meaning "heart". Tachycardia describes a rapid heart rate, generally defined as a resting heart rate exceeding 100 beats per minute.
When combined, "paroxysmal tachycardia" describes a condition characterized by sudden episodes of an abnormally rapid heart rate.