Supraventricular Tachycardia (Non-Sustained) Vs. Supraventricular Tachycardia (Sustained) on Your Watch ECG

Got other questions on SVT? See the Qaly guides on SVT:

• 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 age of health-conscious tech, the ability of smartwatches to monitor heart rhythms has become a crucial tool in everyday health management. One such feature is the electrocardiogram (ECG), which can help identify heart rhythm irregularities. In this article, we'll delve into two specific rhythms: non-sustained supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) and sustained SVT, often referred to in comparison as "SVT sustained vs non-sustained". Let’s dive in.

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What’s Non-Sustained Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT)?

Non-Sustained Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT) is a fast heart rhythm originating from the heart's upper chambers or atria. This type of SVT lasts for less than 30 seconds and often stops on its own. On your watch's ECG, non-sustained SVT presents as a series of regular, narrow complex beats with a heart rate typically over 100 beats per minute. The P waves may be hard to discern due to the rapid rate.

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Although non-sustained SVT is typically harmless, it can cause symptoms like palpitations, shortness of breath, or lightheadedness. If these episodes increase in frequency or duration, it might be necessary to seek medical attention. 

Here’s more on what non-sustained SVT looks like on your watch ECG.

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What’s Sustained Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT)?

Sustained SVT, in contrast, lasts longer than 30 seconds and in some cases, can continue until it's treated. On an ECG, it appears similar to non-sustained SVT with regular, narrow complex beats. However, the defining difference lies in the duration of the fast rhythm.

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Sustained SVT can be more concerning than its non-sustained counterpart because it can lead to more significant symptoms, such as severe shortness of breath, chest pain, or fainting. Additionally, if left untreated, sustained SVT could lead to serious complications like heart failure. 

Here’s more on what sustained SVT looks like on your watch ECG.

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What’s the Difference Between Sustained and Non-Sustained Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT)?

When comparing SVT sustained vs non-sustained, the primary difference is the duration of the episodes. While non-sustained SVT terminates spontaneously within 30 seconds, sustained SVT can last much longer and often requires medical intervention to stop.

The potential health impact of these rhythms also varies. Non-sustained SVT usually leads to minor discomfort and is often benign. However, sustained SVT, due to its longer duration and potential to cause more significant symptoms, can be a more serious condition that may necessitate treatment to manage symptoms and prevent complications.

In conclusion, understanding the readings of your watch's ECG and distinguishing between different heart rhythms, such as non-sustained and sustained SVT, is an essential step in maintaining your cardiovascular health. Always remember, these readings should be used as a complement to regular check-ups with a healthcare professional, not as a replacement for medical advice. Stay informed, stay proactive, and stay heart healthy!

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

Differentiating between sustained vs non-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!