What condition is characterized by episodes of abnormally fast or racing heartbeat?

Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT) is characterized by episodes of abnormally fast or racing heartbeat. This condition arises from abnormal electrical activity in the heart, typically above the ventricles, leading to a rapid heart rate that can exceed 100 beats per minute. Patients may experience symptoms such as palpitations, dizziness, shortness of breath, or chest pain during these episodes.

Understanding SVT is important in the context of emergency medicine since it may require timely interventions to stabilize the patient. Awareness of the symptoms and appropriate treatment options allows healthcare providers to manage the condition effectively and prevent potential complications. Other options, such as heart murmurs, asthmatic episodes, and pneumonia, do not primarily feature the hallmark symptom of an excessively fast heart rate, instead focusing on different clinical presentations.