I think I've developed Paroxysmal Supraventricular Tachycardia

Hello,

I'm a 27 year old male who born with Transposition of the Great Arteries with a VSD.  My condition was corrected using the Mustard Procedure at Toronto's Hospital for Sick Children in 1979.  I have had no reoccurring issues since, and have been generally in good health since with only routine visits to the hospital each year.  I am currently on no heart medication, although have been taking some drugs regularly for the past 10 months for sinusitis.

Recently (Early September) I experienced a short episode of tachycardia (less than 5 minutes) while I was at rest and relaxed.  I thought nothing of it however just a few days ago I experienced another episode.  I did not take my pulse, however the rate was faster than I could count and my whole chest was visible shaking.  This episode again came while I was relaxed and at rest, although I may have overexerted myself earlier in the day.  This episode also appeared to last longer perhaps 10-15 minutes however this time I was well aware of it and may have prolonged it with a general sense of anxiety.  Once I went on with life, my heart rate returned to normal.  

In the past few months, I have become more of a coffee drinker as well and I know that this could be a factor.

I suspect that this is Paroxysmal Supraventricular Tachycardia and not some benign events.  I welcome any opinions.  Is this the beginning of the end?  I'm feeling quit paranoid now and causing myself to have a elevated heart rate for the past few days (nothing severe) and phantom chest pains.  I'm just want to know where I stand? Thanks!

[Cleveland Clinic]

Das,

Thanks for the post.

The late complications of the Mustard procedure include the development of arrythmias. I sont think you should consider this the beginning of the end, but your should take the development of your rhythm change seriously and discuss this occurence with your cardiologist or a congenital heart disease specialist.  They will probably want to evaluate the structural components of your repair.

good luck

[Das-FX]

Doctor,

I'm way ahead of you, I've made appointment to have this checked out.  I'm due for my yearly workup at Toronto General so at least it will be followed up.

I may have overexagerated the whole "Beginning of the End" things, but I really want to know where I stand.  Can this be corrected or maintained.  What other issues may I face?   I know that no one has real answers, but I just want some reassurance that this is not that big of a deal and that I can still look forward to a long, happy and productive life.  I just got married 3 months ago and am looking forward to having children so I just want to know or have some vague idea of what I can expect long-term.

Thanks again,

Das-FX Ontario, Canada

[Das-FX]

The amount of coffee I drink isn't really enough to do anything.  The episodes I've had have been all at night, 12 or more hours since my one cup of coffee in the morning.  I saw the doctor yesterday, he said this is one of the possible late occurances for people with my repaired heart.  He basically said there was nothing really to be concerned and just go on with normal everyday sensible living.  I am due for my yearly check up soon, so if there is something to be found it will be soon.

My only problem now is the elevated heart rate and shortness of breathe that I am psychologically causing myself.  I'm not worried, but I still can't stop thinking about it.  I've been spooked so hopefully I will return to my normal self in a few days.