Another Question please

  II posted a few days ago regarding SVT/RF Ablation/Fear and thank you for your response.  You indicated that if my SVT is stable (no chest pain, drop in bp, etc.) that I might want to speak w/my doctor about meds.  I do feel I am pretty stable.  My heart rate so far during these 3 episodes has been 150-170.  I have had no dizzyness, shortness of breath or chest pain.  My only symptoms have been rapid heartbeat and anxiety.  I carry 20 mg. of Inderal with me at all times in case I go into SVT, but I haven't had to use it yet.  Based on my history, is it likely that my SVT symptoms would worsen, or do they usually follow the same pattern?  Does Inderal usually bring one out of an SVT episode?  My fear is that I will be on the freeway or in an airplane and unable to get medical attention.  Thank you again.  DB

[CCF Cardio MD - MTR]

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Dear DB, thank you for your question.  Inderal is a beta blocker that may slow down an episode of SVT when you take it, but it will take at least 15-20 minutes to work if taken acutely.  I think the physician that answered your question was referring to taking medications chronically to prevent episodes of SVT rather than taking medications acutely.  Chronic use of a beta blocker could potentially prevent or reduce the frequency of future episodes of SVT.  However, I'm not sure if you have heard of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) procedures.  During this procedure, the accessory electrical pathway that causes SVT can be eliminated through application of radiowave energy to the area of the heart where the pathway is located.  This procedure can cure SVT and eliminate the need for medications.  Most patients with SVT elect to undergo this procedure since they don't want to be worried about developing SVT during a crucial situation (like driving on the freeway or in an airplane).  Finally, there is no indication from your history that your symptoms will worsen - it's difficult to predict how symptoms will progress with this disorder.  I suggest that you speak to a cardiologist about a RFA procedure.
I hope you find this information useful.  Information provided in the heart forum is for general purposes only.  Only your physician can provide specific diagnoses and therapies. Please feel free to write back with additional questions.  Good luck.
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