What is a common symptom of paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia?

Palpitations are a very common symptom of paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT), which is characterized by an abrupt onset and termination of a rapid heart rhythm originating above the ventricles. Patients often describe this sensation as feeling like their heart is racing, fluttering, or pounding in their chest, which is primarily due to the increased heart rate and the resulting hemodynamic changes.

While severe chest pain can occur due to the rapid heart rate and any underlying cardiac conditions, it’s not a classic symptom directly associated with PSVT. Syncope, or fainting, can be a result of PSVT, but it’s less common for patients to experience this symptom alone without the preceding palpitations. Ataxia, which refers to a lack of voluntary coordination of muscle movements, is not typically associated with PSVT and is more related to neurological conditions. Therefore, palpitations are the hallmark symptom of PSVT, making it the best choice among the options provided.