PSVT can be diagnosed with an ECG during an episode of rapid heartbeat. To confirm the diagnosis, tests such as Holter monitoring or exercise stress testing may be performed. If tachycardia is suspected based on the patient’s history, an electrophysiology study (EPS) may also be done to induce and identify the abnormal rhythm
When tachycardia occurs, vagal stimulatory maneuvers may be tried. In infants, this can include placing a cold towel or ice pack on the face for about 10 seconds. If the tachycardia does not respond to vagal maneuvers, medications such as adenosine may be used. In rare cases where the patient becomes unstable, for example with low blood pressure, cardioversion may be necessary.
To prevent recurrence, medications such as beta-blockers may be used. However, treatments like radiofrequency ablation or cryoablation performed through an electrophysiology study have shown high success rates.