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Home Knowledge Center Wellness Library Vagal Maneuvers for Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT)

Vagal Maneuvers for Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT)

Overview

Vagal maneuvers are used to try to slow an episode of supraventricular tachycardia (SVT). These simple maneuvers stimulate the vagus nerve. This can sometimes slow the conduction of electrical impulses through the atrioventricular (AV) node of the heart. Be sure to talk to your doctor before trying these.

Your doctor can show you how to do these procedures safely. Your doctor may recommend that you do these while you lie down on your back.

Vagal maneuvers that you can try to slow your fast heart rate include:

  • Bearing down. Bearing down means that you try to breathe out with your stomach muscles but you don't let air out of your nose or mouth.
  • Putting an ice-cold, wet towel on your face.
  • Coughing or gagging.

Along with these, your doctor may sometimes try another vagal maneuver (called carotid sinus massage) in the emergency room to help slow your heart rate. This technique should only be performed by a doctor.

Current as of: July 31, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

To learn more about Ignite Healthwise, LLC, visit webmdignite.com.

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