Clinical features

The patient may complain of:

• palpitations
• chest pain
• shortness of breath

On examination:

• the radial pulse is regular, often with a rate of 125-160 rate/min if there is a 2:1 AV block
• the pulse may be irregular if there is variable AV block
• the frequency of 'a' waves in the JVP greatly exceeds the pulse rate
• carotid compression may slow the rate
• there may be signs of heart failure if the heart decompensates

Reference

1. Brugada J, Katritsis DG, Arbelo E, et al; ESC Scientific Document Group. 2019 ESC guidelines for the management of patients with supraventricular tachycardia - the Task Force for the management of patients with supraventricular tachycardia of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC). Eur Heart J. 2020 Feb 1;41(5):655-720.