Risk factors

Supraventricular tachycardia is the most common type of arrhythmia in infants and children. It also tends to occur more often in women, particularly pregnant women, though it may occur in anyone.

Other things that may increase your risk of supraventricular tachycardia are:

• Age. Some types of SVT are more common in people who are middle-aged or older.
• Coronary artery disease, other heart problems and previous heart surgery. Narrowed heart arteries, a heart attack, abnormal heart valves, prior heart surgery, heart failure, cardiomyopathy and other heart damage increase your risk of developing SVT.
• Congenital heart disease. Being born with a heart defect or heart disease may affect your heart's rhythm.
• Thyroid problems. Having an overactive or underactive thyroid gland can increase your risk of supraventricular tachycardia.
• Drugs and supplements. Certain over-the-counter cough and cold medicines and certain prescription drugs may trigger an episode of supraventricular tachycardia.
• Anxiety or emotional stress
• Physical fatigue
• Diabetes. Your risk of developing heart disease and high blood pressure greatly increases with uncontrolled diabetes.
• Obstructive sleep apnea. This disorder, in which your breathing is interrupted during sleep, can increase your risk of supraventricular tachycardia.
• Nicotine and illegal drug use. Nicotine and illegal drugs, such as amphetamines and cocaine, may trigger an episode of supraventricular tachycardia.