Ventricular Tachycardia
Ventricular Tachycardia is a serious condition that requires prompt medical attention. Regular check-ups and adherence to treatment plans can help individuals manage VT effectively and improve quality of life.
Ventricular Tachycardia (VT) is a rapid heart rhythm originating from the ventricles, the heart's lower chambers. It occurs when abnormal electrical signals cause the ventricles to beat too quickly.
This condition can interfere with the heart's ability to pump blood effectively, leading to symptoms like dizziness, chest pain, or even fainting. In severe cases, VT can lead to sudden cardiac arrest.
If you experience symptoms such as palpitations, chest pain, or dizziness, or have a history of heart disease, it's crucial to seek medical advice to determine the best course of treatment and reduce the risk of complications like sudden cardiac arrest.
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Ventricular Tachycardia (VT) is a rapid heart rhythm originating from the ventricles, the heart's lower chambers. It occurs when abnormal electrical signals cause the ventricles to beat too quickly. This condition can interfere with the heart's ability to pump blood effectively, leading to symptoms like dizziness, chest pain, or even fainting. In severe cases, VT can lead to sudden cardiac arrest.
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Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Shortness of breath
Chest discomfort or pain
Loss of consciousness (in severe cases)
VT can vary in severity, with some individuals experiencing mild symptoms, while others may suffer more dangerous, life-threatening episodes.
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Causes and Risk Factors: Ventricular Tachycardia is often triggered by underlying heart conditions or other factors, such as:
Coronary artery disease
Heart attack (myocardial infarction)
Cardiomyopathy (a disease of the heart muscle)
Electrolyte imbalances (e.g., low potassium or magnesium levels)
Inherited arrhythmia syndromes (conditions passed down through families that affect heart rhythm)
Individuals with previous heart conditions, especially those who have had a heart attack, are at increased risk for VT.
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Diagnosis: To diagnose VT, healthcare providers may use the following diagnostic tools:
Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG): A test that measures the electrical activity of the heart and can detect abnormal rhythms.
Holter monitor: A portable ECG device that records the heart’s activity over 24-48 hours to capture irregular rhythms.
Electrophysiology study: A procedure to map the heart’s electrical pathways and identify areas causing abnormal rhythms.
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Treatment for VT aims to restore normal heart rhythm and address any underlying causes. Common treatments include:
Medications: Antiarrhythmic drugs may be prescribed to control heart rhythm.
Cardioversion: A medical procedure in which electrical shocks are used to reset the heart to a normal rhythm.
Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator (ICD): A small device implanted under the skin that continuously monitors the heart and delivers shocks if it detects life-threatening arrhythmias.
Catheter Ablation: A procedure that destroys abnormal heart tissue responsible for triggering VT, offering a potential cure for recurrent episodes.
Dr John keaney
Dr. Keaney graduated with honors from University College Dublin's medical school in 2004. During his postgraduate training, he completed two years of research at the Mater Hospital, earning a Newman Fellowship from UCD.
He further honed his expertise with a two-year fellowship in advanced cardiac electrophysiology at Massachusetts General Hospital, a primary teaching hospital of Harvard Medical School.
Dr. Keaney is currently part of the joint College of Physicians working group on atrial fibrillation and stroke, reflecting his commitment to advancing cardiovascular care and research.
