Ventricular tachycardia is a fairly serious heart condition, and it’s also a fairly rare one. Only about 90,000 Americans are diagnosed with this condition each year, but there is good news: It’s treatable.

Our AFC Urgent Care Easley team further highlights this condition below, so keep reading to learn more.

What Is Ventricular Tachycardia?

Ventricular tachycardia (VT) is a type of irregular cardiac rhythm that develops when the heart’s lower two chambers (the ventricles) do not beat properly and do not supply enough oxygenated blood to the rest of the body.

VT might last a few seconds and cause no difficulties, or it can recur or last for more than 30 seconds, which, in both cases, can put a person at risk for heart failure and other serious complications. The most prevalent VT symptoms are listed here.

Common Ventricular Tachycardia Symptoms

• Chest pain
• Dizziness
• Pounding heartbeat (palpitations)
• Lightheadedness
• Shortness of breath

How Is Ventricular Tachycardia Treated?

Although maintaining healthy habits is a great practice, medication or surgery are really the only things that can treat this condition. The most common first line of defense of VT is anti-arrhythmic medications, which help to normalize the heart’s BPM.

In more serious cases, surgeries like ablation and an implanted cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) can be required to treat VT. Furthermore, those who have had past heart issues, like a heart attack, have a higher risk of dealing with VT. There things you can do to help prevent possible VT, and we’ve listed them below!

Ways to Prevent VT

• Exercise often. This means getting at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise each week, according to the CDC.
• Maintain a healthy diet. A diet low in saturated and trans fats and rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains helps keep the heart healthy.
• Control stress. High stress levels cause a high BPM, which puts more stress on the heart.
• Don’t use illegal drugs. Stimulants, such as cocaine and meth, cause lots of damage to the heart.

We can provide the care that you need for your non-emergency medical issues. Visit our AFC Urgent Care Easley team today!