Hi, I was recently diagnosed with ventricular tachycardia following 48hr holder ECG: 2 episodes of 12 irregular brats in 48 hours...

[mrallergy]

Hi, I was recently diagnosed with ventricular tachycardia following 48hr holder ECG: 2 episodes of 12 irregular beats in 48 hours were recorded.

VT was asymptomatic, BP averages 135 / 72-80, HR: 61. I've had only one episode of mild angina in the 6 months following an MI in October 2020; been prescribed dual antilplatelet therapy as standard, and have just started Bisoprolol at 1.25mg. I have only taken a single dose of this betablocker but have experienced severe breathlessness and my BP has increased to 152 / 82.

Are there alternatives, and why do I need a betablocker in the first place?

Confused!?

[ToffeeT]

I suffered an episode of VT, it caused a cardiac arrest. I was so lucky I was at work at a time I wouldn't normally be there, dead for 6 minutes, constant CPR and 4 shocks from the works defib. The Bisopurol controls the heart beat so tha in theory VT can't happen. I don't suffer breathlessness or anything except cold feet. I find wearing socks in bed preferable to a wooden overcoat. There are alternatives but you should keep taking it until you get to speak with your doctor.

[mrallergy in reply to ToffeeT]

Thanks for reply. I'm so sorry to hear about your VT episode. That must have been pretty scary!

I've only taken a single dose of Bisoprolol at 1.25mg, so I stopped it the following day. My recent angiogram showed no structural abnormality. All previously fitted stents were clear and functioning normally. EGC was textbook (normal QT and SA / AV communication), so I don't think there's any scar tissue or damage, but I would like to have another echocardiogram just to rule this out.

No symptoms of VT, but another Holter ECG is scheduled in 6 weeks time, so I shall see if the VT has is still present. As I said it was only 1 episode lasting about 10 seconds in a 48 hour sample. Asymptomatic and non sustained, so I'm not overly concerned at the moment. Stress or anxiety can cause VT, and in the absence of any physical or electrophysiological indications, I suspect the cause is not cardiac related. However, further tests should clarify things.

[Palpman]

LQTS is often the cause of VT and beta blockers are normally prescribed to counter it.If VT attacks become regular then an ICD would be the only option.

[mrallergy]

Thank you for your insights. I'm not aware of ECGs recording LQTS, but I will confirm with cardiac nurse and consultant at next appointment. I think I'd prefer an ICD than suffer dyspnoea episodes from beta blockers though!