title: The diving reflex used to treat paroxysmal atrial tachycardia.
abstract: Induction of the diving reflex, by immersion of the face in cold water (2 degrees C) while the breath was held, converted paroxysmal atrial tachycardia to sinus rhythm within 15-35 seconds in seven patients (aged 22-66). Four had histories of heart attacks that had previously required vasopressor therapy, and two had been digitalised; three had no history of prior paroxysmal atrial tachycardia or heart-disease. The reported procedure, which is convenient, non-invasive, and can be self administered by the patient after brief instruction, may offer a useful adjunct to carotid-sinus massage and intravenous infusion of vasopressors for the treatment of paroxysmal atrial tachycardia.
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001049:Apnea / Q000503:physiopathology; D002346:Carotid Sinus; D003080:Cold Temperature; D004242:Diving; D005145:Face; D005260:Female; D006321:Heart / Q000502:physiology; D006329:Heart Conduction System / Q000503:physiopathology; D006801:Humans; D007101:Immersion; D008297:Male; D008405:Massage; D008875:Middle Aged; D012018:Reflex; D012119:Respiration; D013614:Tachycardia, Paroxysmal / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy*; D013997:Time Factors; D014630:Vagus Nerve / Q000503:physiopathology; D014662:Vasoconstrictor Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use
chemical_list: D014662:Vasoconstrictor Agents