Ventricular tachycardia is a fast heartbeat which comes from the ventricles (lower chambers of the heart). It is a potentially dangerous rhythm and requires investigation and often treatment.
The symptoms are usually palpitations and dizziness. Chest pain, breathlessness and collapses can also occur, as can cardiac arrest. Ongoing ventricular tachycardia can be life-threatening and is treated as a medical emergency.
An electrocardiogram (ECG) during the symptoms is often enough to make the diagnosis. If it is intermittent then a 24-hour ECG or longer rhythm monitoring may be required.
An echocardiogram (ultrasound) is also performed, because if the heart is a normal shape and function then the outlook is better and this can often be treated with beta-blockers only. If there is evidence of a cardiomyopathy (problem with the heart muscle) or evidence of coronary disease or impaired heart function then further treatment is likely to be required.
If the echocardiogram is abnormal then a cardiac MRI will usually be performed which looks for scar in the heart which can result in ventricular tachycardia. If there is suspicion of narrowed coronary arteries, then a CT coronary angiogram or invasive angiogram amy be performed. It is common to be admitted to hospital urgently for investigation of ventricular tachycardia.
There are many treatment options available for the treatment of ventricular tachycardia, and each of them have been properly designed to suit the different needs of the individual circumstances.
Patients whose hearts are normal in shape and size can usually be treated with medications such as a beta-blocker. Those with very frequent episodes who are severely affected may be offered a ventricular tachycardia ablation.
Patients whose hearts are an abnormal shape or function may also be treated with medications but may also benefit from an implantable cardiac defibrillator (ICD). This implant will help treat the rapid heartbeat since it can be life-threatening. An ablation may also be required.. This treatment is a very complex one and needs the expert experience of a Consultant Electrophysiology Cardiologist.
Ventricular tachycardia is a potentially dangerous rhythm problem and needs urgent expert review. Our cardiologists are available for consultation on any day of the week and weekends as well.
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