Which clinical condition is characterized by a heart rate between 160 and 250 beats per minute?

Supraventricular tachycardia is characterized by a rapid heart rate ranging between 160 and 250 beats per minute. This condition originates at or above the atrioventricular (AV) node and typically involves a reentrant circuit or increased automaticity that causes the atria to beat very quickly. The rapid heart rate can lead to symptoms such as palpitations, dizziness, or chest pain, depending on the individual’s overall cardiovascular health and response to the rapid rhythm.

Unlike other conditions listed, complete heart block generally manifests with a slower heart rate due to a disruption in the electrical signals between the atria and ventricles. Premature atrial contractions and premature ventricular contractions are irregular heartbeats that occur occasionally and do not sustain the elevated heart rate typical of supraventricular tachycardia. Understanding the distinctions in these conditions is essential for accurate assessment and management in clinical practice.