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Dr. Andrew Rynne
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Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Suffering From Episodes Of Supraventricular Tachycardia. Prescribed Beta Blockers. Will I Struggle At High Altitude?

I have been suffering with episodes of svt, more recently lasting significantly longer than what I would deem normal. I am under the assessment of a cardiologist at Glenfield hospital in Leicester who has prescribed beta blockers and advised I may need a small op early next year if episodes continue. I have stopped drinking caffeine, alcohol and do not smoke.
I am due to take my 3 young boys skiing in January and am nervous that I may struggle at altitude. Can you offer any advice?
Many thanks, Sarah
Fri, 29 Nov 2013
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Cardiologist,  's  Response
Dear Sarah,

Thanks for your query. This is a great question. Higher altitudes over 7000 feet can be associated with lower oxygen levels and predispose to SVT; however, since you are already on medication and avoiding precipitants this is less likely to happen. Remember to take your medication faithfully and also try vagal maneuvers (eg. pushing like a bowel movement, massage in the upper corner of the neck) in case that you have an episode of palpitations.


Yours truly,

Dr Brenes-Salazar MD
Mayo Clinic MN
Cardiology
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Suffering From Episodes Of Supraventricular Tachycardia. Prescribed Beta Blockers. Will I Struggle At High Altitude?

Dear Sarah, Thanks for your query. This is a great question. Higher altitudes over 7000 feet can be associated with lower oxygen levels and predispose to SVT; however, since you are already on medication and avoiding precipitants this is less likely to happen. Remember to take your medication faithfully and also try vagal maneuvers (eg. pushing like a bowel movement, massage in the upper corner of the neck) in case that you have an episode of palpitations. Yours truly, Dr Brenes-Salazar MD Mayo Clinic MN Cardiology