040 68334455
WhatsApp
Patient Portal
Home Care
Premature Ventricular Contractions: Symptoms and Treatments
Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Ravindra Amujuru , Cardiologist
Premature Ventricular Contractions (PVCs) are extra heartbeats that begin in the lower chambers of the heart (ventricles). They can cause your heart to feel like it's skipping a beat or fluttering. While often harmless, frequent PVCs may signal a heart problem and should be checked by a doctor for proper care.
What are the Premature Ventricular Contractions Symptoms and Warning Signs?
PVCs can feel like a strange heartbeat. Some people may not notice anything, while others feel clear signs.
Common Symptoms
- Feeling like your heart skipped a beat
- Fluttering or pounding in the chest
- Occasional shortness of breath
- Feeling tired for no clear reason
Severe Symptoms
- Frequent or strong heart palpitations
- Feeling dizzy or lightheaded
- Fainting
- Trouble breathing during regular activity
What Are the Different Types of Premature Ventricular Contractions?
PVCs can appear in different patterns:
- Isolated PVCs: Occur singly and infrequently
- Bigeminy: Every alternate heartbeat is a PVC
- Trigeminy: Every third beat is a PVC
- Couplets/Triplets: Two or more PVCs occur in a row
- Frequent PVCs: Occur more than 10% of total heartbeats in a 24-hour period
Understanding the type helps cardiologists decide on treatment urgency and options.
What Are the Common Causes and Risk Factors of Premature Ventricular Contractions?
PVCs can happen for many reasons. Some are due to heart issues, while others come from lifestyle habits.
Causes
- Imbalance in minerals like potassium or magnesium
- Heart disease or damage from a previous heart attack
- An overactive thyroid
- Certain medications or stimulants
Risk Factors
- High caffeine, alcohol, or tobacco use
- Stress, anxiety, or lack of sleep
- Age (more common in older adults)
- Intense physical activity
Get a second opinion from trusted experts and makeconfident, informed decisions.
Get Second OpinionHow Premature Ventricular Contractions are Diagnosed?
Diagnosing PVCs involves a combination of tests and evaluations to determine the frequency, pattern, and potential cause.
Common Diagnostic Tests
- ECG (Electrocardiogram): Checks your heart's electrical activity
- Holter Monitor: A portable ECG worn for 1-2 days
- Event Monitor: Worn for weeks to catch irregular beats
- Echocardiogram: An ultrasound to check heart health
- Blood Tests: Look for mineral or thyroid issues
- Stress Test: Checks your heart rhythm during exercise
At Medicover, we use advanced heart monitoring tools, with expert cardiologists on hand to give accurate, fast results.
What Are the Treatment Options for Premature Ventricular Contractions?
Treatment depends on symptom severity, frequency, and any underlying heart disease.
Medications
- Beta-blockers: Help slow the heartbeat
- Calcium channel blockers: Help calm the heart rhythm
- Antiarrhythmic drugs: For more serious rhythm problems
Lifestyle Interventions
- Avoid stimulants (caffeine, alcohol, nicotine)
- Manage stress with yoga or breathing exercises
- Get enough rest and regular exercise
Procedures
- Catheter Ablation: Destroys the part of the heart causing the PVCs
- ICD (Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator): A device used for patients at high risk of dangerous rhythms
Recovery Timeline
- Mild PVCs: Managed within weeks with lifestyle changes and meds
- Complex cases: Ablation recovery typically 1-2 weeks
- Long-term monitoring may be advised
Our team offers custom treatment plans based on your heart's needs, with both medical and lifestyle support at Medicover.
When to See a Doctor?
Seek medical advice if:
- You feel heart palpitations often
- You experience dizziness or fainting
- You already have heart disease and notice new symptoms
- Symptoms last more than a few days or worsen over time
Your health is everything - prioritize your well-being today.
Consult Premature Ventricular Contractions Doctors Today
What Is the Recovery Process After Premature Ventricular Contractions Treatment?
Recovery depends on treatment type and overall health. Most patients respond well to non-invasive management.
Follow-Up Care
- Regular ECGs or Holter monitoring
- Scheduled cardiologist visits
- Ongoing lifestyle management
Lifestyle Recommendations
- Reduce stress and stimulants
- Maintain heart-healthy diet
- Exercise regularly under guidance
We provide full support during recovery, including nutrition tips, stress care, and regular follow-up plans.
What Precautions Can Help Prevent Premature Ventricular Contractions?
Proactive heart care can significantly reduce PVC episodes.
Prevention Tips
- Limit caffeine, alcohol, and smoking
- Stay physically active
- Get enough sleep and eat a balanced diet
- Reduce stress through mindfulness or therapy
Possible Complications If Untreated
- Weakening of the heart muscle
- Development of serious rhythm problems
- Increased risk for heart failure or sudden heart problems
Our Experience Treating Premature Ventricular Contractions
At Medicover we offer specialist hormonal healthcare to patients with PVCs in a caring environment. With advanced diagnostic tools and a multidisciplinary team of cardiologists, we offer prepared treatment plans focused on long-term heart health. Your well-being is our top priority, and we're here to guide you toward a healthier heart, every step of the way.
