Is it best to get up after an SVT episode in the night?

[HowMyHeartSings]

Hi - I’ve been having a great deal of difficulty sleeping with my SVT episodes (I have atrial tachycardia) - I had four short episodes of racing heart last night between 11PM & 3AM. I couldn’t sleep. What do people do after a night episode - is it best to simply get up? Trying to go back to sleep I’ve found to be too anxiety laden and ultimately futile. Any tips when you first feel the ‘flutter’ or feeling that starts the fast heart in the night? My sleep deprivation is becoming a vicious cycle. Any feedback greatly appreciated.

[Boombiddy]

Hello,

I think your idea of getting up for a bit is sound, because in my experience if I get up for a bit the change of position improves/'resets' my heart rhythm, and I remember other members saying this has worked for them too.

I would do it within 15 minutes rather than lie in bed worrying, because this way you don’t lie awake thinking only about sleep/your symptoms and it could help you not get into a cycle of worrying about it, and you don’t associate the bedroom with anxiety.

(And by getting up before it has taken such a hold, you may nip the symptoms in the bud anyway).

A book recommended by my consultant at UCLH's Sleep Clinic, recommends that if you have been lying awake for 15 minutes and can’t sleep, get up, go to another room and do something relaxing that you enjoy, for a bit. I have found that this really does help.

You don't lose sleep this way, in fact it becomes easier.

Someone may give you more specific advice for your condition ( mine is AF), meanwhile I think this is a good place to start.

Best wishes from B

[jenjulia]

Have you tried the modified Valsava move? This usually is able to slow down my heart and I can go back to sleep. Sometimes it takes a couple of tries. I also have atrial tachycardia and wake up with episodes. Also, check into your diet and digestion, as mine is directly related to my gut health it seems. rebelem.com/the-revert-tria...