Picture this: You’re settled into a calm moment, and out of the blue, your heart starts a frantic race, drumming inside like it’s sprinting for gold. 

A nerve-wracking thriller or an extra shot of espresso can cause the heart to race, but it quickly returns to normal. A lesser-known phenomenon called supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) causes the heart to suddenly speed up at a much faster pace that is typically hard to break. 

SVT is a relatively common arrhythmia that impacts approximately 2 out of every 1,000 people in America. 

What Is Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT)?

At its core, SVT is an abnormally fast rhythm originating from the upper part of the heart above the ventricles. Typically, the problem starts in the heart’s upper chambers, the atria. Sometimes, it begins in the tissues between the atria and ventricles. 

Unlike the typical rhythmic and synchronized contraction of the heart’s chambers, during an SVT episode, the heart can race anywhere from 150 to 250 beats per minute—considerably faster than the average resting heart rate.

One common subtype of SVT is Atrioventricular Nodal Reentrant Tachycardia (AVNRT). In AVNRT, a tiny “reentry” circuit in or near the atrioventricular node causes the heart to beat faster than usual. This can lead to palpitations, dizziness, and even fainting spells.

Diving Deep into the Causes

Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT) can be set into motion by a variety of triggers. Some medications and over-the-counter remedies have been known to set off this heart arrhythmia.

Consuming large quantities of caffeine or alcohol can jolt the heart’s rhythm, just as intense moments of stress or emotional upheaval can. Even seemingly benign actions, like a swift change in posture, can act as a catalyst for individuals prone to rhythm disorders.

Other common causes of SVT include: 

• Structural Heart Changes: Conditions such as congenital heart defects or an enlarged heart can pave the way for SVT.
• Electrolyte Imbalances: Elements like potassium and magnesium play a critical role in heart functions. An imbalance can disturb the heart’s electrical activity.

The Vagus Nerve and SVT 

Have you ever heard of the vagus nerve? It’s like a superhighway of communication running from our brain to our heart and other major organs. Damage to the vagus nerve can contribute to SVT, potentially sparking or worsening those rapid heartbeats that characterize the condition.

But here’s the interesting part: knowing about the vagus nerve’s role gives us a tool to help manage SVT episodes. There are specific techniques called “vagal maneuvers,” designed to gently stimulate the vagus nerve and bring the heart back to its regular rhythm.

One popular technique is the Valsalva maneuver. Think of it as trying to blow air out while keeping your mouth shut and pinching your nose, like you might do on a plane to clear your ears. Another technique involves bearing down as though one is having a bowel movement. For some, this can be a game-changer, providing quick relief during an SVT flare-up.

Is There a Cure for SVT?

While many medical professionals label SVT as idiopathic—meaning its cause is unknown—at Natural Heart Doctor, we’ve observed that embracing a holistic approach can substantially reduce SVT episodes. Our philosophy is rooted in the Eat Well, Live Well, Think Well mantra, which emphasizes:

• Dietary Excellence: Opt for a diet rich in organic, whole foods reminiscent of what our ancestors consumed. This means steering clear of processed sugar, gluten, GMOs, pesticides, and chemicals. Embrace a nose-to-tail eating philosophy, incorporating wild seafood and other nutrient-dense foods that nourish the body from within.

• Balanced Exercise: While it’s true that strenuous activity can sometimes trigger SVT in predisposed individuals, exercise, in general, is beneficial for heart health. It’s essential to find the right balance. Focusing on low to moderate-intensity workouts and always heeding the body’s signals can be the golden middle ground.

• Nature Over Tech: The ever-present electromagnetic fields from our gadgets can disturb our heart’s rhythm. Swapping screen time for green time, immersing oneself in nature, and taking frequent breaks outdoors can be revitalizing.

• Stress Management: Chronic stress is a potent SVT trigger in today’s fast-paced world. Cultivating mindfulness, adopting relaxation techniques, and maintaining a balanced lifestyle can keep stress at bay.

• Sunny Side Up: Regular sun exposure has myriad benefits. Not only does it aid in Vitamin D synthesis, but the sun’s rays also help the body produce nitric oxide, promoting heart health.

• Chiropractic Care: Routine chiropractic adjustments can alleviate nerve pressure and strengthen vagal tone, enhancing overall cardiovascular function and ensuring a rhythmic heartbeat.

At Natural Heart Doctor, we believe that the heart, much like any other organ, responds to its environment and the care it receives. By embracing a holistic approach, one can significantly improve the heart’s health and reduce the frequency and intensity of SVT episodes.

SVT Ablation

In general, SVT ablations have a high success rate, with most patients experiencing a significant reduction or elimination of their SVT episodes. Success rates can be well over 90% for certain types of SVT, such as atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia (AVNRT) and atrioventricular reentrant tachycardia (AVRT).

At NHD, our goal is to make you the healthiest version of you BEFORE an ablation. This ensures the best chance of success with the least short-term and long-term complication risk. 

SVT Pharma

Many options for SVT control with drugs exist. Beta blockers, calcium channel blockers and antiarrhythmics are options. But natural treatments abound including one of my favorites, lithium. Our Cardio Lith 2 tabs 3x per day is first line natural therapy. 

Next Steps 

If you suspect you’re experiencing SVT or AVNRT, it’s essential to consult with a cardiologist or electrophysiologist. A series of tests, including an electrocardiogram (ECG) or a Zio Patch monitor, can confirm the diagnosis.

Living with SVT requires a blend of awareness, treatment, and proactive lifestyle choices. While the rapid heartbeats can be disconcerting, understanding the condition and its triggers can pave the way for effective management and a high quality of life.

Considering a holistic approach to managing SVT? Schedule a free 20-minute call with one of our experienced health coaches, who can guide you through effective strategies tailored to achieve your 100 year heart.