Final answer:
Ventricular Tachycardia is a serious cardiac arrhythmia with a fast heart rate originating from the ventricles. Treatment varies and includes medications, implantable cardioverter defibrillators, or defibrillation using an automated external defibrillator in emergencies.
Step-by-step explanation:
Ventricular Tachycardia: Definition and Treatment
Ventricular tachycardia (VT) is a type of cardiac arrhythmia characterized by a fast heart rate that originates in the ventricles of the heart. Specifically, it is defined as a heart rate exceeding 100 beats per minute emerging from the ventricles, and it can be a life-threatening condition as it may lead to ventricular fibrillation, which is a medical emergency. Symptoms can include dizziness, shortness of breath, lightheadedness, rapid pulse, heart palpitations, chest pain, or fainting (syncope).
For treatment, the approaches may vary depending on the underlying cause and severity of the VT. Medications like beta blockers or antiarrhythmic agents may be used to control heart rate or restore normal rhythm. More invasive options include the use of implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs), cardiac ablation procedures, or even surgery in some cases. In emergency situations, defibrillation with an automated external defibrillator (AED) is used to deliver a shock to the heart, attempting to reset the heart's rhythm back to normal.