SVT event while undergoing stress tests

[Jannie411]

Hi all, I'll be undergoing a stress test this afternoon and am very nervous about the possibility of having an SVT event while on the treadmill.  Had this ever happened to anyone?  If so, how is it handled?  I am very worried that I will end up in the ER again.  

[tom_h]

The electrical anomoly that causes a PVCs can initiate an SVT event if it occurs at the precise moment.  The way it was explained to me is accessory pathway or pathways conducting the electrical pulses can set up a perfect storm of sorts that triggers an event.  You can have thousand of PVC's without triggering one. It has to set up perfectly to start one.  My 30 day monitor captured 3 events and each one was preceded by a PVC.

[Jannie411]

Too funny about the wedgie!  I just got back from the appointment.  The echocardiogram went well, and surprisingly, so did the stress test.  The woman who conducted the test said I was "shooting PVC's all over the place".  I'm assuming that means premature ventricular contractions?  Are these a precursor to an SVT event?  I wasn't sure that I would be able to get my heart rate up to 138 without fainting or having a bad SVT attack, but I managed to make it ok.  I'm so relieved - it looks like all systems are "go" for the ablation next week.  So far, so good.  Thanks to everyone for all the support!

[Mom2four85]

yup 2 were there during mine too thankfully...I fainted and the one NP grabbed me before I could hit the moving treadmill; gave me a good big wedgie which they laughed at but made it memorable for me lol

[Jannie411]

Hi Tom - hmmm, that's interesting.  The cardiologist mentioned at my last appointment that they were hoping to initiate an SVT event......the problem for me is that my events don't convert anymore.  Perhaps it would be a good thing to happen because they would be able to tell me what type of SVT I have......I have so little knowledge because I never saw a cardiologist until about 3 weeks ago.  And you're right that it's a good thing to be in the presence of skilled medical professionals should it occur.   The stress test and echo are in preparation for my EP ablation next Wednesday.   Hoping they have adenosine on hand just in case.  Thanks for your help!

[Jannie411]

Thanks Ireneo - that's very reassuring to hear.  I'm going over for the stress test and the echo this afternoon, they called me this morning to move my tests up by a few hours.  I'm having a quick lunch now (no food 2 hours before test) and can only have water afterwards, so no chamomile tea today......maybe when I get home.  Wish I could have a glass of wine, but that's a big no-no.  LOL!

[tom_h]

Dispite my history of frequent SVT, especially under high physical exertion, I never experienced one during any of my stress tests.  My cardiologist actually wanted it to occur so he could observe its initiation, as well as it conversion.  I hate to tell you, but it's probably the best thing that could happen.  Plus, you're in the presence of the people wou'd want most should it occur.  Remember, most SVT's are not dangerous!  I'm assuming that the stress test is related to the SVT, or is it for something else?  

[ireneo]

When I had my stress test, 2 women were right there with me, one on either side. If my heart even hiccuped, they asked me if I was OK. Yeah, sure, just fine. They'll handle any odd rhythms right away if they occur.

During the resting phase of my test, my heart was tossing out PVC's like candy. The women mentioned it to me and they seem concerned. I assured them I was fine and it was normal for me. All in all, the stress test wasn't bad and I passed.

Be sure to get a good night rest before you go in. Drink chamomile tea if you have to. Some say it helps you relax. I don't know about that but I did it anyway. Is that cheating? LOL