Ventricular Tachycardia: Causes, Risks & Prevention

Did you know that Ventricular Tachycardia (VT) and Ventricular Fibrillation (VF) are the leading causes of sudden cardiac deaths in the U.S., accounting for approximately 300,000 fatalities annually?

What is Ventricular Tachycardia (VT)?

Ventricular Tachycardia (VT) is defined as a heart rhythm exceeding 100 (or 120) beats per minute, characterized by three or more consecutive irregular beats originating beyond the bundle of . This rhythm can develop from the ventricular myocardium, the distal conduction system, or a combination of both.

Common causes and triggers of Ventricular Tachycardia

VT happens when faulty heart signals make the ventricles beat too fast, limiting blood flow to the body.

Common Triggers:

• Prior heart attack
• Heart tissue scarring (structural heart disease)
• Poor blood flow (coronary artery disease)
• Congenital heart issues (e.g., long QT syndrome)
• Electrolyte imbalances (potassium, sodium, calcium, magnesium)
• Medication side effects
• Stimulant use (cocaine, methamphetamine)
• Unknown causes (idiopathic VT)

How to Prevent Ventricular Tachycardia?

According to the American Heart Association (AHA), here are essential steps for maintaining heart health:

• Eat Right: Balanced diet, low in salt and fats, rich in fruits and grains
• Exercise Daily: 30 mins on most days
• Maintain Healthy Weight: Set realistic BMI and weight goals
• Control BP & Cholesterol: With lifestyle changes and meds if needed
• Manage Stress: Practice mindfulness and stay connected
• Limit Alcohol: Women – 1 drink/day, Men – 2 drinks/day
• Quit Smoking: Seek support if needed
• Sleep Well: 7–9 hours daily with a consistent schedule

Bonus Tips: Limit caffeine, avoid stimulants, check medicine ingredients, and schedule regular health checkups.

Want to learn more about Ventricular Tachycardia? Click here.

The Role of Heart Monitors With Continuous ECG Technology?

Heart monitors with continuous ECG technology play a crucial role in tracking heart rhythms in real time, helping identify irregular heartbeats. They provide accurate data for better health decisions, support timely medical intervention, and help manage heart conditions effectively. Continuous monitoring highlights unusual patterns, reducing the risk of sudden cardiac events and enabling proactive heart health management.

For those at risk of arrhythmias like ventricular tachycardia (VT) or atrial fibrillation (AFib), continuous heart monitoring is crucial. The Frontier X Plus, an FDA-cleared device, offers long-term cardiac monitoring and precise insights for proactive heart health management.

For deeper insights into your heart metrics, a smart heart monitor like the Frontier X2 provides accurate, real-time tracking to help you stay on top of your heart health.