Although ventricular tachycardia only affects 4% of the U.S. population annually, it’s something of which to take note. Its symptoms mirror anxiety symptoms in some cases, but they’re clearly two different things.

This heart issue can cause serious complications at times, and our AFC Urgent Care Sevierville team provides more helpful information about it below. Keep reading!

What Is Ventricular Tachycardia?

Ventricular tachycardia (VT) occurs when the ventricles, the heart’s lower two chambers, beat too quickly, exceeding 100 beats per minute while at rest. When the ventricles beat too quickly, they don’t fill properly, and the blood they send to the rest of the body isn’t properly oxygenated. You may feel light-headed or out of breath as a result of this.

If you experience any of the symptoms listed below on a regular basis, you may have VT.

Common Ventricular Tachycardia Symptoms

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

How Is Ventricular Tachycardia Caused?

VT is frequently caused by previous cardiac problems, such as a previous heart attack, which damage the heart muscle and cause scar tissue to form abnormal electrical pathways in the ventricles.

Idiopathic ventricular tachycardia occurs when cells beyond the sinus node begin to generate an electrical impulse on their own, and it can occur in people who have never had any previous cardiac problems. This type of VT is easy to treat and usually does not pose a life-threatening concern.

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 non-emergency care you need seven days a week! Don’t hesitate to stop by our AFC center today—no appointments necessary.