Multifocal Atrial Tachycardia

Chest pain is one of the possible symptoms of multifocal atrial tachycardia. Other symptoms include: 

• Palpitations. 
• Breathing problems. 
• Fainting. 

Most persons with multifocal atrial tachycardia don't have any symptoms. However, book an appointment with your Cardiologist if you experience any of these symptoms or call the emergency number right away if you experience any chest pain or discomfort. 

Multifocal atrial tachycardia (MAT) is typically brought on by underlying medical conditions. These prevalent underlying conditions are linked to this arrhythmia: 

• Decompensated chronic lung disease, coronary artery disease, heart failure, valvular heart disease, diabetes, hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, azotemia, postoperative state, pulmonary embolism, pneumonia, sepsis, and methylxanthine toxicity (theophylline toxicity). 

• During the physical exam, your cardiologist will notice that your pulse is quick and erratic and that your first heart sound may vary. 
• An electrocardiogram (EKG) that aids in the diagnosis of multifocal atrial tachycardia.  

Once your cardiologists have determined that you have multifocal atrial tachycardia, they may order: 

• X-rays of the chest. 
• Blood tests to rule out electrolyte issues, such as the serum chemistry panel 
• Red blood cell (RBC) counts and blood hemoglobin levels to check for signs of anemia 
• Arterial blood gas measurements to determine pulmonary state 
• A cardiac echograph (rarely). 

Electrocardiogram (EKG) results typically show multifocal atrial tachycardia, which Cardiologists can diagnose. 

Once the underlying cause is treated, multifocal atrial tachycardia typically disappears. Numerous sufferers of multifocal atrial tachycardia simply require care for the underlying problem that triggered it. Your arrhythmia therapy options for multifocal atrial tachycardia may include: 

• Beta-blockers 
• Potassium and magnesium 
• Blockers of calcium channels 

Rarely, AV node ablation may be necessary for someone with multifocal atrial tachycardia.