Ectopic heartbeat
Definition
Ectopic heartbeat is an irregularity of the heart rate
and heart rhythm involving extra or skipped heartbeats.
Alternative Names
PVB (premature ventricular beat); Premature contraction; Premature beats; PVC (premature ventricular contraction); Extrasystole
Causes
Ectopic heartbeats are an arrhythmia
involving small variations in an otherwise normal heartbeat. In many cases, they may occur without obvious cause and be benign.
Other times, however, they are associated with electrolyte abnormalities in the blood which should be corrected. They can also be associated with ischemia, or local reduction in blood supply to the heart. In addition, ectopic beats may be caused or made worse by excessive smoking, alcohol consumption
, caffeine
, certain medications, and some illicit drugs.
Ectopic beats are rare in children other than those with congenital heart disease
. The majority of extra heartbeats in children are PAC's (premature atrial contractions), which are almost always benign
.
In adults, ectopic beats can occur more commonly, and underlying reversible reasons should be investigated even if it turns out that no treatment is ultimately needed.
Symptoms
- Sensation of feeling heart beat (palpitations
)
- Sensation of stopped or skipped beats
Note: In many cases, the person may have no symptoms.
Exams and Tests
A physical examination
may show an occasional irregularity, but if the ectopic beats do not occur frequently, they may not be detectable on physical exam. Blood pressure
is usually normal.
The following tests may be used to diagnosis an ectopic heartbeat:
Treatment
Often ectopic heartbeats do not require treatment. The condition is treated if symptoms are severe or if extra beats are very frequent.
An underlying cause, if discovered, may also require treatment.
Outlook (Prognosis)
Ectopic heartbeats are generally benign, requiring no treatment. Occasionally, they may indicate an increased risk for other cardiac arrhythmias.
Possible Complications
Note: There usually are no complications.
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Call your health care provider if you feel palpitations that are persistent or are accompanied by chest pain
or other symptoms.
Call your health care provider if ectopic heartbeats have been diagnosed and the symptoms worsen or do not improve with treatment.
Prevention
Moderation in caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco use may reduce the risk of ectopic heartbeats in some people. Exercise often helps persons who lead a sedentary lifestyle.
