Summary about Disease
Extrasystole, also known as premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) or premature atrial contractions (PACs), are extra, abnormal heartbeats that disrupt the regular heart rhythm. These extra beats originate in the ventricles (PVCs) or atria (PACs) of the heart and cause a feeling of a skipped beat or palpitations. They are generally benign and common, but frequent or symptomatic extrasystoles may indicate an underlying heart condition.
Symptoms
Many people with extrasystoles experience no symptoms. When symptoms are present, they may include:
Palpitations (feeling of skipped or racing heartbeats)
Fluttering in the chest
Pounding sensation in the neck
Lightheadedness or dizziness
Fainting (rare)
Chest discomfort
Causes
The exact cause of extrasystoles is not always known. Possible causes and contributing factors include:
Stress, anxiety, and caffeine
Nicotine and alcohol
Electrolyte imbalances (potassium, magnesium)
Dehydration
Heart disease (coronary artery disease, heart failure, cardiomyopathy)
High blood pressure
Thyroid problems
Certain medications (decongestants, asthma inhalers)
Stimulants
Lack of sleep
Medicine Used
Treatment for extrasystoles depends on the frequency and severity of symptoms, as well as the presence of underlying heart disease. If treatment is necessary, options may include:
Lifestyle modifications: Reducing caffeine and alcohol intake, managing stress, and ensuring adequate hydration.
Beta-blockers: These medications slow the heart rate and reduce the frequency of extrasystoles.
Calcium channel blockers: These medications can also help control heart rate and rhythm.
Antiarrhythmic medications: These medications are used to suppress abnormal heart rhythms in more severe cases. Examples include flecainide, propafenone, amiodarone, and sotalol.
Electrolyte Replacement: Potassium or Magnesium supplements to correct imbalances.
Ablation Therapy: If medication is ineffective, a catheter ablation procedure may be performed to destroy the heart tissue causing the abnormal beats.
Is Communicable
No, extrasystoles are not communicable. They are not caused by an infectious agent and cannot be spread from person to person.
Precautions
Reduce or eliminate caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine.
Manage stress through relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation.
Stay hydrated.
Maintain a healthy diet.
Get regular exercise (after consulting with a doctor).
Address any underlying medical conditions, such as high blood pressure or thyroid problems.
Inform your doctor about all medications you are taking.
Ensure adequate sleep.
Regularly monitor your heart rate and rhythm if you experience frequent symptoms.
Consult a physician if you have concerns about your heart health
How long does an outbreak last?
Extrasystoles are not an outbreak, but rather a recurring or persistent condition. They can occur sporadically or frequently. The duration of symptoms can vary from seconds to minutes, or even be constant in some cases. How long they last depends on the underlying cause and whether it is addressed. Individual premature beats are fleeting. A sustained period of frequent extrasystoles depends on triggering factors.
How is it diagnosed?
Extrasystoles are typically diagnosed with the following tests:
Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG): This test records the electrical activity of the heart and can identify abnormal heart rhythms.
Holter monitor: A portable ECG that records heart activity for 24-48 hours or longer to capture infrequent extrasystoles.
Event monitor: A device that records heart activity only when the patient experiences symptoms.
Echocardiogram: Ultrasound of the heart to look for structural abnormalities.
Stress test: ECG monitoring during exercise to see how the heart responds to stress and whether extrasystoles are triggered.
Electrolyte blood tests: To evaluate potassium and magnesium levels.
Timeline of Symptoms
The onset of symptoms can be sudden. The experience of symptoms is variable.
Trigger: Stress, caffeine, or other triggers.
Onset: Sudden awareness of palpitations.
Duration: Seconds to minutes, possibly longer.
Resolution: Symptoms may resolve spontaneously, or with rest and trigger avoidance.
Recurrence: Possible recurrence depending on triggers and underlying conditions.
Chronic: Can be a chronic or recurring problem.
Important Considerations
While most extrasystoles are benign, it is important to consult a doctor to rule out underlying heart conditions.
Frequent or symptomatic extrasystoles can affect quality of life and may require treatment.
People with known heart disease should be particularly vigilant about managing their condition and reporting any new or worsening symptoms.
Lifestyle modifications can often help reduce the frequency and severity of extrasystoles.
Stress management is crucial, as stress is a common trigger.
Long-term prognosis is generally good, especially with appropriate management.