Sinus Rhythm Vs. Supraventricular Tachycardia (Sustained) on Your Watch ECG

Got other questions on Sinus Rhythm or SVT? See the Qaly guides on Sinus Rhythm and SVT:

• What Sinus Rhythm Looks Like on Your ECG
• What SVT Looks Like on Your ECG
• ‍How to Read an ECG: Stanford Cardiologist Explains
• ‍The Ultimate Cardiologist's Guide to the Smartwatch ECG

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Introduction

In the world of heart health, understanding your heart rhythm is vital. Electrocardiograms (ECGs) play an essential role in deciphering these rhythms. As technology has advanced, ECG readings have become accessible even on our wrist-worn devices. In this article, we’ll explore two specific rhythms: sinus rhythm and sustained supraventricular tachycardia (SVT), discussing SVT vs sinus rhythm as they appear on your watch ECG. Let’s dive in.

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What’s Sinus Rhythm?

Sinus rhythm, or normal sinus rhythm, is considered the standard rhythm of a healthy heart. In this pattern, electrical signals originate from the sinoatrial (SA) node located in the right atrium, initiating each heartbeat and ensuring they occur at a steady, regular rate.

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On an ECG, sinus rhythm is characterized by a distinct P wave (indicating atrial contraction) followed by the QRS complex (signifying ventricular contraction), then the T wave (representing ventricular relaxation). This cycle repeats at a rate of 60-100 times per minute in adults at rest. Here’s more on what sinus rhythm looks like on your watch ECG.

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What’s Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT)?

SVT is an abnormal fast heart rhythm starting in the upper chambers (atria) of the heart, leading to a heart rate often between 150 to 250 beats per minute.On an ECG, SVT is identified by a rapid, regular rhythm with typically narrow QRS complexes. Often, P waves are difficult to see. 

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“Non-sustained” SVT lasts less than 30 seconds, whereas “sustained” SVT lasts longer, sometimes even up to several hours. Here’s more on what SVT looks like on your watch ECG.

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What’s the Difference Between Sinus Rhythm and Sustained SVT?

When comparing SVT vs sinus rhythm, several differences arise. Firstly, sinus rhythm is a regular rhythm with a rate between 60 and 100 beats per minute, while SVT is a fast, often regular rhythm with rates typically over 150 beats per minute.

Another key difference lies in their ECG representation. Sinus rhythm presents with distinct and regular P waves, QRS complexes, and T waves. In contrast, an EKG showing SVT vs. normal sinus rhythm will depict rapid heartbeats, often with the P waves hard to discern due to the speed of the rhythm.

Health-wise, a normal sinus rhythm reflects a healthy functioning heart. On the other hand, sustained SVT can lead to symptoms like palpitations, shortness of breath, chest discomfort, and in severe cases, loss of consciousness. If you have frequent episodes of SVT, it could suggest an underlying heart condition that needs medical attention.

In conclusion, understanding the differences between sinus rhythm vs SVT can be a powerful tool for health monitoring, particularly with the accessibility of watch ECGs. However, these devices should not replace professional medical consultation. If your watch ECG picks up irregularities, it is crucial to seek advice from a healthcare provider for a thorough examination. Stay informed, stay proactive, and stay heart healthy!

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Still Not Sure if It’s Sinus Rhythm or Supraventricular Tachycardia (Sustained) on Your ECG?

Differentiating between sinus rhythm vs sustained SVT on your ECG can be tricky. If you’re still looking for help interpreting your ECG further, check out the Qaly app on App Store or Play Store. On Qaly, human experts will interpret your ECGs within minutes, day or night. Try out the Qaly app today!