clinical features
Last reviewed 01/2018
The patient may complain of:
- palpitations
- chest pain
- shortness of breath
On examination:
- the radial pulse is regular, often with a rate of 125-160 rate/min if there is a 2:1 AV block
- the pulse may be irregular if there is variable AV block
- the frequency of 'a' waves in the JVP greatly exceeds the pulse rate
- carotid compression may slow the rate
- there may be signs of heart failure if the heart decompensates