Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 14, 2025

Optimization of Transesophageal Atrial Pacing to Assess Atrial Fibrillation Susceptibility in Mice
Published on: June 29, 2022
Deglutition-Induced Atrial Tachycardia
Nesrine Farah1, Catalina Trana1
1Cardiology, Hôpital Riviera Chablais, Rennaz, CHE.
Abstract:
While bradyarrhythmia is the most common arrhythmia during deglutition, tachycardias are considered to be a very rare condition with approximately 50 cases documented worldwide. The subjects are usually men with no structural heart disease or gastrointestinal pathology, and symptoms may vary from palpitations to lightheadedness or syncope. Management is based on adapting alimentary habits in combination with agents such as beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and class IA, IC, and III drugs. Radiofrequency catheter ablation offers a permanent cure in the majority of the reported cases. We report the case of a 51-year-old male with swallowing-induced palpitations, corresponding to brief episodes of atrial tachycardia. Beta-blockers and calcium channel blockers were interrupted because of intolerance. Lifestyle measures with fractionated meals allowing small boluses significantly reduced symptoms. The patient was reticent to invasive measures.
Related Concept Videos
Dysrhythmias II: Classification of Tachyarrhythmias
Dysrhythmias III: Characteristics of Dysrhythmias
Increased pulse rate
Many factors can elevate the risk of developing tachycardia. These include advanced age, a family history of arrhythmias, and an...
Disturbances in Heart Rhythm
Arrhythmias are categorized by their speed, rhythm, and origin. A slow heart...
Dysrhythmias IV: Characteristics of Bradyarrhythmias
ECG Interpretation of Arrhythmias II: Atrial, Junctional and Ventricular Arrhythmias

