Yes, atrial tachycardia is a form of supraventricular tachycardia (SVT). SVT is a type of abnormal heart rhythm characterized by a rapid heart rate that originates in the upper chambers of the heart, the atria. Atrial tachycardia is a type of SVT caused by an abnormal focus of electrical activity in the atria that generates abnormal electrical impulses, leading to an abnormally fast heart rate.
Atrial tachycardia is usually considered to be a narrow complex tachycardia, meaning that the electrical impulse has a regular rhythm and a narrow QRS width, which is the width of the electrical signal on an electrocardiogram. This type of tachycardia can be caused by re-entry pathways, such as Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome, or it can be caused by an extra focus of electrical activity in the atria, such as an automatic focus or ectopic focus.
Atrial tachycardia can cause palpitations, lightheadedness, chest pain, and shortness of breath. It can also lead to more serious complications, such as stroke, if left untreated. Treatment for atrial tachycardia depends on the underlying cause, and can include medications, ablation, or the implantation of a pacemaker.