Service
Palpitations & SVT
Palpitations — an awareness of your heartbeat — are a common reason to see a cardiologist. They are usually benign, but certain patterns point to a rhythm disturbance such as supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) that can be treated.
Assessment
The history often gives important clues, but the key to diagnosis is recording the heart rhythm during symptoms. This is achieved with an ECG and a tailored period of ambulatory monitoring, supplemented by an echocardiogram where structural assessment is needed.
Treatment
Where a treatable rhythm such as SVT is confirmed, options range from reassurance and simple measures, through medication, to catheter ablation — a day-case procedure that offers a high chance of cure for many forms of SVT.
Common questions
Are palpitations a sign of something serious?
Most palpitations are harmless. The purpose of assessment is to identify the smaller number caused by an underlying rhythm disturbance that would benefit from treatment.
What is SVT?
Supraventricular tachycardia is a fast heart rhythm arising from the upper chambers or the electrical junction of the heart. It often starts and stops suddenly and can usually be treated very effectively, including with a curative ablation.
How are palpitations investigated?
The key is to capture your heart rhythm during symptoms. Depending on how often episodes occur, this may involve an ECG, a wearable monitor over days or weeks, or a longer-term recorder.
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Read moreLast reviewed: June 2026. Reviewed by Dr Iain Sim.