Final answer:
Narrow-complex supraventricular tachycardia is best treated with cardioversion or defibrillation in urgent cases, and with medications like beta blockers or antiarrhythmic agents in stable conditions. Long-term management may include addressing underlying disorders and lifestyle changes, while severe cases might require procedures. Blood thinners could be prescribed to prevent complications.
Step-by-step explanation:
Narrow-complex supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) is best treated with several therapeutic modalities depending on the urgency and severity of the condition. In an emergency setting, where a patient is hemodynamically unstable and symptomatic, immediate treatment with a controlled electric shock through cardioversion or defibrillation may be necessary. In more stable patients, the management of SVT often involves medication aimed at slowing the heart rate or restoring a normal heart rhythm. Medications such as beta blockers and antiarrhythmic agents, including procainamide, are commonly used.
Pacemakers are more often used for conditions like bradycardia, where the heart rate is too slow, while in the case of SVT the heart is beating too fast. It's important to note that while beta blockers can be quite effective, they must be used carefully due to potential side effects such as excessively slowing down the heart rate or even causing heart stoppage when overprescribed. Cardioinhibitory centers also play a role by reducing the heart rate and stroke volume via parasympathetic stimulation.
For long-term management, apart from medications, treatment may include lifestyle changes and addressing underlying disorders such as metabolic imbalances, thyroid diseases, or electrolyte disturbances that may contribute to arrhythmias. In severe cases, procedures like ablation may be necessary. Blood thinners might also be prescribed to reduce the risk of complications like thromboembolic events.