Can SVT cause a ventricular tachycardia?

My doctor believes I may have supra ventricular tachycardia. He has suggested that there is a danger that an SVT rhythm could drive the ventricals into a tachycardia which, of course, could be fatal.  Because of this he suggests I take drugs to control my SVT.  I haven't read anywhere that an SVT can initiate ventricular problems.  Is there a reasonable chance that this could happen?

Tim

[CCF CARDIO MD - DLB]

Dear Tim

If you have an SVT it can cause fast heart rates in the ventricle directly. If you also have any abnormal connections between the atria and ventricles, an SVT can travel down these pathways, which can lead to fast and dangerous heart rates in the ventricle. Thus, in some people SVT is not particularly dangerous, though it can be annoying; in others, it can be life threatening.

I hope this has been useful. I wish you the best of luck. Feel free to write back.

Information provided here is for general purposes only. Specific questions should be addressed to your own doctor. If you would like to make an appointment at the Cleveland Clinic Heart Center, please call 1-800-CCF-CARE or inquire online by using the Heart Center website at www.ccf.org/heartcenter. The Heart Center website contains a directory of the cardiology staff that can be used to select the physician best suited to address your cardiac problem.