Ventricular tachycardia, or a rapid heart rate originating from the lower half of the heart, may require treatment with cardio-pulmonary resuscitation or medication through an intravenous line, according to WebMD. Sustained ventricular tachycardia can turn into ventricular fibrillation, which is a medical emergency. When a patient experiences ventricular tachycardia, the heart beats too quickly to effectively pump oxygenated blood through the body.Continue Reading
Treatment for ventricular tachycardia may include shocking with an automatic defibrillator to restore a steady heart rhythm, states WebMD. Other treatments for ongoing ventricular tachycardia include the insertion of an implantable cardioverter defibrillator to detect and correct irregular heart rhythms. Antiarrhythmic medicines may also be prescribed to prevent future episodes of ventricular tachycardia. When the part of the heart responsible for ventricular tachycardia is identified, a procedure called catheter ablation can be used to eliminate the heart tissue at fault for the condition.
Ventricular tachycardia is a symptom that does not indicate a single medical issue, but can be a sign of a heart problem, states WebMD. When not related to heart issues, ventricular tachycardia may come on as a result of low potassium or other electrolyte levels or due to the use of certain drugs such as decongestants or diet pills. Symptoms that accompany the accelerated heart rate may include a feeling of faintness or dizziness or a weak pulse.Learn more about Cardiac Health