ECTOPIC BEATS

Overview and Facts

Ectopic Beats, also called premature heartbeats, are deviations from a regular heartbeat. It happens when cells outside your heart’s normal pacemaker get stimulated and emit an electrical signal, resulting in an ‘extra’ or early beating. There is often a slight delay following the other beat, providing the impression of a missed heartbeat.

Furthermore, it is uncommon in children who do not have a heart condition at birth. However, they are prevalent in adults. PACs or PVCs often cause them. Also, a heart attack or a family history of PVC may enhance an individual’s likelihood of acquiring PVCs as they age.

Types and Symptoms

TYPES

There are two major types of ectopic heartbeats:

Premature Atrial Contractions (PACs). These are ectopic beats that occur in the heart’s upper chambers.

Premature Ventricular Contractions (PVCs). These ectopic beats develop in the heart’s lower chambers.

SYMPTOMS

Ectopic beats may occur without causing any symptoms. However, some individuals may have more severe symptoms that resemble those of more serious cardiac problems. Common ectopic heartbeat symptoms usually involve:

  • a sense of dizziness or faintness
  • a pounding pulse
  • a feeling of fluttering in the chest
  • increased awareness of the heart’s beat

Diagnosis & Medications

DIAGNOSIS

Doctors can detect ectopic heartbeats by talking about the symptoms a person experiences. They will most likely place a stethoscope on the person’s chest to listen for an irregular heartbeat. Moreover, a doctor may order other tests to discover the source of the condition.

The following tests may assist them in ruling out more serious issues.

  • CT or MRI scans
  • Coronary Angiography, often known as a heart X-ray
  • Echocardiography, often called a heart ultrasound
  • Exercise Assessment

TREATMENTS

In the majority of instances, treatment isn’t required. Symptoms will usually go away on their own. However, if your symptoms worsen, your doctor will cure you according to the leading cause. Your doctor may give beta-blockers or other medications if you’ve had a heart attack or heart failure in the past. If you have heart problems, your doctor may recommend angioplasty (opening a restricted blood vessel with a balloon) or bypass surgery. Consult your doctor to determine the best treatment option for your condition.

Related Articles

JUVENILE IDIOPATHIC ARTHRITIS

Overview and FactsTypes and SymptomsDiagnosis & MedicationsOverview and Facts Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), formerly known as juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, is [...]

JUVENILE POLYPOSIS SYNDROME

Overview and FactsTypes and SymptomsDiagnosis & MedicationsOverview and Facts Juvenile polyposis syndrome (JPS) is a rare genetic disorder characterized by [...]

JUVENILE PILOCYTIC ASTROCYTOMA

Overview and FactsTypes and SymptomsDiagnosis & MedicationsOverview and Facts Juvenile pilocytic astrocytoma (JPA) is a relatively common type of brain [...]