Premature beat

Premature Beat

A premature beat is a cardiac arrhythmia that occurs when the heart's electrical system triggers a heartbeat before it is expected. This can happen in the atria or the ventricles, leading to different types of premature beats: premature atrial contractions (PACs) and premature ventricular contractions (PVCs).

Causes

Premature beats can be caused by a variety of factors, including stress, caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, and certain medications. They can also be a symptom of underlying heart disease, such as coronary artery disease, heart failure, or cardiomyopathy. However, in many cases, the exact cause of premature beats is unknown.

Symptoms

Symptoms of premature beats can vary widely. Some people may not experience any symptoms, while others may feel a fluttering or pounding sensation in the chest, known as palpitations. Other possible symptoms include fatigue, dizziness, or shortness of breath.

Diagnosis

Premature beats are typically diagnosed through an electrocardiogram (ECG), which records the electrical activity of the heart. Other diagnostic tests may include a Holter monitor, which records the heart's activity over a 24-hour period, or an event monitor, which records the heart's activity during symptoms.

Treatment

Treatment for premature beats depends on the underlying cause and the severity of symptoms. In some cases, lifestyle changes such as reducing caffeine or alcohol intake, quitting smoking, or managing stress may be enough to reduce or eliminate premature beats. In other cases, medication or procedures such as catheter ablation may be necessary.

See Also

• Cardiac arrhythmia
• Premature atrial contractions
• Premature ventricular contractions
• Electrocardiogram
• Holter monitor
• Event monitor
• Catheter ablation