Which of the following is a characteristic of paroxysmal arrhythmias?

Paroxysmal arrhythmias are characterized by episodes that occur suddenly and can resolve on their own. This aspect of paroxysmal arrhythmias distinguishes them from other types of arrhythmias, such as chronic or sustained arrhythmias, which may require medical intervention to terminate or manage. The self-resolving nature of paroxysmal arrhythmias is key to understanding their behavior and implications in patient management.

In addition to their capacity to resolve without treatment, paroxysmal arrhythmias, like atrial fibrillation or supraventricular tachycardia, can occur intermittently and may not signify an ongoing heart condition. This is unlike chronic arrhythmias, which persist over time and often require continuous monitoring and management.

The duration of paroxysmal arrhythmias is typically short-lived, often lasting only a few seconds to a few days, which further supports the correct choice. They are not inherently life-threatening; while they can cause symptoms and potentially lead to complications, many individuals experience these arrhythmias without serious adverse effects, especially when they self-resolve.