Final answer:
Non-Sustained Ventricular Tachycardia (NSVT) is a kind of ventricular arrhythmia that lasts less than 30 seconds without causing significant hemodynamic changes. An ECG or Holter monitor can aid in diagnosis, and treatment varies based on the cause but can include medication or ablation.
Step-by-step explanation:
What is Non-Sustained Ventricular Tachycardia (NSVT)?
Non-Sustained Ventricular Tachycardia (NSVT) is a form of heart arrhythmia that is characterized by a rapid heart rate originating from the ventricles. NSVT occurs in bursts lasting less than 30 seconds without causing hemodynamic instability. This condition fits into the broader category of ventricular arrhythmias, and it involves episodes of tachycardia, where the rate of heartbeats exceeds the normal resting rate, typically defined as over 100 beats per minute (bpm) in adults. An electrocardiogram (ECG) or Holter monitor can help with the diagnosis. NSVT may not always produce symptoms, but when they occur, they can include palpitations, dizziness, or shortness of breath.
Arrhythmias like NSVT can be influenced by various factors, including electrical conduction system abnormalities, autonomic nervous system disorders, and stress among others. The treatment for NSVT aims at normalizing the heart rhythm and may involve medication or procedures such as ablation depending on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. In situations where the electrical activity of the heart is severely disrupted, leading to conditions like ventricular fibrillation, immediate medical intervention with a defibrillator may be necessary to prevent serious consequences like brain death.