From the Guidelines
For managing flare-ups of supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) at home, try vagal maneuvers first, as recommended by the 2015 ACC/AHA/HRS guideline for the management of adult patients with supraventricular tachycardia 1.
Vagal Maneuvers
These include:
- The Valsalva maneuver: bearing down as if having a bowel movement while lying down with legs elevated
- Facial immersion in cold water
- Carotid sinus massage: only if recommended by your doctor These techniques work by stimulating the vagus nerve, which can slow heart rate.
Medications
If vagal maneuvers fail, take medications prescribed by your doctor, such as:
- Diltiazem (30-60mg)
- Verapamil (40-120mg)
- Beta-blockers like metoprolol (25-50mg) Always have these medications readily available if you have recurrent SVT.
Lifestyle Modifications
Stay hydrated, avoid triggers like:
- Caffeine
- Alcohol
- Stress Practice relaxation techniques during episodes. Sit or lie down during an episode to prevent fainting.
When to Seek Medical Attention
If symptoms persist beyond 20-30 minutes, are accompanied by:
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness Or if this is your first episode, seek emergency medical attention immediately. These home remedies work by either increasing vagal tone or blocking calcium channels in the heart, which helps restore normal rhythm by interrupting the abnormal electrical circuit causing the rapid heartbeat.
From the Research
At-Home Remedies for Flare-Ups of Supraventricular Atrial Tachycardia
There are several at-home remedies that can help manage flare-ups of supraventricular atrial tachycardia, including:
- Vagal maneuvers, such as the Valsalva maneuver, which can help terminate the arrhythmia 2, 3, 4, 5
- Modified Valsalva maneuver, which has been shown to be more effective than the standard Valsalva maneuver in terminating supraventricular tachycardia 4, 5
- Deep breathing exercises and relaxation techniques, which can help reduce stress and anxiety that can trigger supraventricular tachycardia
When to Seek Medical Attention
It is essential to seek medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen, including:
- Severe chest pain or discomfort
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Fainting or near-fainting
- Palpitations or irregular heartbeat that lasts for more than a few minutes
Additional Management Options
Other management options for supraventricular atrial tachycardia include: