How to Self-Treat During an Episode of Supraventricular Tachycardia

Supraventricular tachycardia, or SVT, is a common type of arrhythmia that causes a rapid heartbeat. During an episode, individuals may experience palpitations, dizziness, shortness of breath, or even more severe symptoms. Fortunately, there are several self-help techniques that can be used to manage symptoms and, in many cases, stop the episode altogether.

Effective Self-Care Techniques for SVT

1. Apply the Diving Reflex: One of the most well-known and effective methods involves stimulating the vagus nerve through what's known as the diving reflex. You can do this by submerging your face in a bowl of cold water. The cold sensation helps activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which can slow down the heart rate.

2. Perform the Valsalva Maneuver: This involves holding your breath and trying to exhale forcefully while keeping your mouth and nose closed. Another variation is to simulate the act of straining during a bowel movement. This maneuver increases pressure in the chest cavity and can help reset the heart's rhythm.

3. Induce Gagging or Nausea: Using a clean finger or a tongue depressor (like a sanitized spoon or similar object), gently stimulate the back of your throat to induce a gag reflex. This action can activate the vagus nerve and interrupt the abnormal heart rhythm.

Additional Stimulation Methods

4. Apply Pressure to Specific Areas: Gently pressing on the area around one eye socket (avoiding direct pressure on the eyeball) or massaging the carotid sinus on one side of the neck can also stimulate the vagus nerve. However, neck massage should be done carefully, especially in older adults or those with known vascular issues, as it may carry risks.

Why These Methods Work

All of these self-help techniques aim to stimulate the vagus nerve, which plays a key role in regulating heart rate. By increasing parasympathetic activity and reducing sympathetic nervous system stimulation, these actions can help restore normal heart rhythm during an SVT episode. While these methods are generally safe, individuals who experience frequent or severe episodes should consult a healthcare professional for long-term management and possible medical treatment options.