Signs and Symptoms

With supraventricular tachycardia (SVT), you may suddenly feel your heart beating very fast. It might beat 150 to 250 times per minute or more at rest – meaning without exerting yourself or being active, which naturally quickens your heart rate. A normal (resting) heart rate is between 60 and 100 beats per minute.

SVT episodes can start and stop suddenly. They can last a few minutes, several hours or longer.

Some people only have brief episodes or mild symptoms. Others may have symptoms that affect their daily life.

Symptoms usually happen when the heart starts beating too fast. You may notice:

• A racing or pounding heartbeat
• Palpitations – irregular heartbeat of a fluttering feeling in your chest
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pressure or discomfort
• Weakness or feeling tired
• Fainting, or feeling like you might faint (less often)

If you faint, be sure to seek medical care right away.

SVT is not life-threatening. But it is important to talk with your health care team if you notice that your heart is racing, fluttering, or skipping beats – especially if symptoms happen often or affect your daily activities.