Which of the following BEST describes a fluttering sensation in the chest?

A fluttering sensation in the chest is best described as palpitations. Palpitations refer to the awareness of the heart beating, which may feel like a rapid, irregular, or fluttering heartbeat. This sensation can occur due to various reasons, including anxiety, stress, stimulant use, or underlying cardiovascular issues. It often leads individuals to notice their heartbeats more than normal, causing a feeling of fluttering.

The other sensations mentioned do not adequately capture the characteristic feeling of palpitations. Aching tends to be related to pain or discomfort in muscles or tissues, tightness often refers to a feeling of constriction that can occur in muscles or around the chest, and burning sensation generally indicates a form of irritation or discomfort, which may be associated with gastrointestinal issues or nerve-related problems. None of these terms convey the specific experience of a sudden, noticeable heart rhythm change that defines palpitations.