7 year old boy

[bean00]

My son was just diagnosed with svt. He has 5 episodes in the past 4-5 months where he complains of a fast hear which has been lasting anywhere from 25-45 minuets.  After his 4 episode we were given a episodic monitor to try to catch an event.  We did catch an event and apparently the recorded heart rate was 260. This sounds very high!!! They recommended medicine  and I am hesitant to put him on it since the episodes don’t seem to bother him too much. What are the reasons for putting a child on this medicine, and what would the potential consequence be for not putting him on it. He has been prescribed 25mg atenolo once a day. Thanks

[Michael J. McWilliams, M.D.]

I am not a pediatric electrophysiologist.  I would recommend seeing one if you haven't already

Medications will sometimes suppress the arrhythmia and is a reasonable first line choice.  Ablation is often another good option.  There are few down sides to trying the medication unless he is allergic -- rare.

I am not sure that there are down sides to not doing, but I wouldn't want to second guess the doctor that has already seen the strips.  I would personally want to do something -- either medication or an EP study to determine the mechanism of the heart rhythm and potential cure.  The best things I can recommend is to see a good pediatric electrophysiologist.  I might be able to recommend one if you tell me your approximate location.

i hope this helps and good luck.

[bean00]

I live in Cary Nc