Ventricular tachycardia is a type of
abnormal heart rhythm that originates in the
ventricles, the lower chambers of the heart. It is characterized by three or more consecutive premature ventricular contractions (PVCs), which occur at a rate of more than 100 beats per minute. This can be a potentially life-threatening condition because it can lead to a
heart attack or
sudden cardiac arrest if not treated promptly.
Ventricular tachycardia can be classified into two main types:
monomorphic and
polymorphic. Monomorphic ventricular tachycardia has a regular pattern, while polymorphic ventricular tachycardia has an irregular pattern and is often associated with a condition called
torsades de pointes.
The causes of ventricular tachycardia can include
heart disease,
coronary artery disease,
heart failure,
valvular heart disease, or even certain
medications. It can also occur in individuals with no known heart disease, particularly in cases of
long QT syndrome or
Brugada syndrome.
Symptoms may include
palpitations,
lightheadedness,
shortness of breath,
chest pain, and in severe cases,
loss of consciousness. Treatment options vary depending on the underlying cause and may include
medications,
cardioversion, **implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD)**, or
ablation.
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