Experiencing heart flutters or skipped beats, especially during times of stress or anxiety, might be attributed to premature ventricular contractions (PVCs). These are a frequent cause of arrhythmia, an irregular heart rhythm, occurring when an early heartbeat originates in the ventricles, the heart’s lower chambers, instead of the atria, the upper chambers where signals typically begin.
PVCs are also known by other names, including premature ventricular complexes, ventricular premature beats, or extrasystoles.
While occasional PVCs are usually not concerning, particularly in individuals without pre-existing heart conditions or other health issues, frequent PVCs can sometimes indicate an underlying health problem or, in rare instances, lead to heart complications.
Diagnostic ECG tracing showing Premature Ventricular Contractions (PVCs), crucial for heart rhythm diagnosis.
Recognizing PVC Symptoms for Timely Diagnosis
You might not always feel PVCs, especially if they are infrequent. However, when symptoms are present, they can manifest in various ways. A common sensation is feeling like your heart “skipped a beat.” This sensation arises not from a missed beat, but from a forceful beat that follows the PVC.
More frequent PVCs can lead to a fluttering feeling in the chest. If PVCs occur often enough to compromise the heart’s pumping efficiency, you might experience dizziness or weakness.
It’s important to consult your doctor if you experience these symptoms. While they could be due to harmless PVCs, they can also be associated with other conditions that require medical attention, such as:
- Anemia
- Anxiety disorders
- Underlying heart disease
- Infections
- Other types of heart rhythm disturbances
Diagnosis of PVCs: Identifying Irregular Heart Rhythms
Diagnosing PVCs typically involves a combination of symptom evaluation and cardiac testing. The process starts with discussing your symptoms with your healthcare provider. Describing the frequency and nature of your palpitations is crucial for initial assessment.
The most common and effective diagnostic tool for PVCs is an electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG). This non-invasive test records the electrical activity of your heart and can detect PVCs during the test. However, since PVCs can be intermittent, a standard ECG might not capture them if they are not occurring at the time of the test.
In cases where PVCs are suspected but not captured on a standard ECG, or to assess the frequency of PVCs, your doctor may recommend a Holter monitor. This is a portable ECG device that you wear for 24 to 48 hours (or sometimes longer) to continuously record your heart rhythm. This extended monitoring period increases the likelihood of detecting PVCs and quantifying their frequency.
Further diagnostic tests may be necessary depending on the suspected underlying cause and the frequency of PVCs. These could include:
- Event monitor: Similar to a Holter monitor but worn for a longer period (e.g., 30 days). It records heart activity when you trigger it upon experiencing symptoms.
- Echocardiogram: An ultrasound of the heart to assess its structure and function, helping to identify any underlying heart conditions contributing to PVCs.
- Stress test: ECG monitoring while you exercise to see how exercise affects your heart rhythm and whether it triggers PVCs.
- Blood tests: To check for electrolyte imbalances or thyroid issues that can sometimes contribute to arrhythmias.
When is PVC Diagnosis Crucial?
While occasional PVCs are often benign, seeking a proper diagnosis is essential in certain situations. You should consult your doctor for PVC diagnosis if:
- You experience frequent palpitations, dizziness, or weakness.
- You have a known history of heart disease or other related health conditions.
- Your symptoms are worsening or becoming more bothersome.
- You are concerned about your heart rhythm.
Accurate diagnosis of PVCs is the first step toward appropriate management and ensuring your long-term heart health. If you are experiencing symptoms that you suspect could be PVCs, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice for a comprehensive evaluation and diagnosis.
