What Is Polymorphic Ventricular

Tachycardia (PVT)?

Polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (PVT) is a type of arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat) that occurs when the heart's ventricles (lower chambers) beat too fast and in a disorganized manner. This can cause the heart to pump less blood than it should, which can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, chest pain, and shortness of breath. PVT can also be a sign of a more serious heart condition, such as heart failure or coronary artery disease.

What Causes PVT?

PVT can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

Electrolyte imbalances: Low levels of potassium, magnesium, or calcium can all increase the risk of PVT.

Ischemia: A lack of blood flow to the heart can damage the heart muscle and lead to PVT.

Structural heart disease: Conditions such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (thickened heart muscle) and arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (a disease of the heart muscle that causes arrhythmias) can increase the risk of PVT.

Certain medications: Some medications, such as antiarrhythmic drugs, antidepressants, and stimulants, can increase the risk of PVT.

Underlying medical conditions: Conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and coronary artery disease can all increase the risk of PVT.

What Are the Symptoms of PVT?

The symptoms of PVT can vary depending on the severity of the arrhythmia. Some people may experience no symptoms at all, while others may experience symptoms such as:

Dizziness

Lightheadedness

Fainting

Chest pain

Shortness of breath

Palpitations (a feeling of the heart racing or skipping beats)

How Is PVT Diagnosed?

PVT is diagnosed based on a person's symptoms and a physical examination. The doctor may also order one or more of the following tests:

Electrocardiogram (ECG): This test records the electrical activity of the heart and can show the presence of PVT.

Echocardiogram: This test uses ultrasound to create images of the heart and can show any structural abnormalities that may be causing PVT.

Electrophysiological study (EPS): This test involves inserting electrodes into the heart to record the electrical signals and to test how the heart responds to certain stimuli.

How Is PVT Treated?

The treatment for PVT depends on the severity of the arrhythmia and the underlying cause. Some people may not need any treatment, while others may need medications, surgery, or a combination of treatments.

Medications: Medications that are used to treat PVT include antiarrhythmic drugs, beta-blockers, and calcium channel blockers.

Surgery: Surgery may be necessary to correct any structural abnormalities that are causing PVT.

Implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD): An ICD is a device that is implanted in the chest to monitor the heart rhythm and deliver electrical shocks if the heart beats too fast or too slowly.

What Is the Prognosis for PVT?

The prognosis for PVT depends on the severity of the arrhythmia and the underlying cause. Some people may have only occasional episodes of PVT, while others may have frequent episodes that can be life-threatening. The earlier PVT is diagnosed and treated, the better the prognosis.

How Can PVT Be Prevented?

There is no sure way to prevent PVT, but there are some things you can do to reduce your risk, such as:

Managing your risk factors for heart disease, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes

Getting regular exercise

Eating a healthy diet

Maintaining a healthy weight

Avoiding smoking

Limiting alcohol intake

Getting enough sleep

Managing stress

If you have any of the symptoms of PVT, it is important to see your doctor right away. Early diagnosis and treatment can help to improve your prognosis.