Expert: David Richardson - 6/6/2009

Question
My cardiologist thinks I may be having an exercise induced SVT.  He said my heart is very normal and healthy..only slight MVP with very mild leakage.  He said it is not life-threatening and I will not die from it.  The episodes feel very scary to me and sometimes I feel short of breath and lightheaded when I get them after exercise.  Is it normal to feel that way with an episode of SVT?   I am so afraid of falling over dead.  I am afraid to exercise now, because I don't want to induce an episode.  What can you tell me about SVT?

Answer
Gina, it's normal to feel lightheaded and short of breath during SVT.  You will not fall over dead or die slowly either because of SVT.  If the episodes are frequent with exercise, ask the doctor about taking a pill before exercise.  Flecaiide is my favorite, pretty effective in preventing SVT and safe for someone with normal echo.

Write back any time, and pease let me know what you decide to do and how well it works.

David Richardson