Overview
Premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) are a type of irregular heartbeat. They occur when the electrical signal that starts your heartbeat comes from one of your bottom two heart chambers (ventricles). The signal typically starts in the top right chamber (atrium).
PVCs are not always a problem. But if they repeatedly happen for months or years, they can cause a type of cardiomyopathy, or heart muscle weakening. PVCs usually go away with medication or other minimally invasive treatments.
Some people call premature ventricular contractions “pre ventricular contractions.” Healthcare providers may also refer to them as:
- Premature ventricular complexes.
- Ventricular extrasystoles.
- Ventricular premature beats.
How do electrical signals control your heartbeat?
Typically, in your heart conduction system, a cluster of cells in your right atrium called the sinoatrial (SA) node sends out the first electrical signal of a heartbeat. That signal moves through your heart and travels to your left and right ventricles. It tells your heart to contract.
In PVCs, that first signal starts in one of your ventricles. As a result, the signal travels differently through your heart and causes an irregular heartbeat. Sometimes, a PVC may feel like your heart “skipped a beat.”
Who is most likely to have premature ventricular contractions?
PVCs can happen in anyone, but they’re more common in older adults and those with heart disease. Your risk for PVCs also increases if you have:
- Heart failure.
- High blood pressure (hypertension).
- History of heart attacks.
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.
How common are premature ventricular contractions?
PVCs are quite common. Up to 75% of people experience them.
Are PVCs something to worry about?
Many people don’t have any symptoms or health problems associated with PVCs. But if you do experience symptoms, speak with your healthcare provider. You may need treatment to prevent heart problems such as cardiomyopathy.
Are PVCs life-threatening?
PVCs typically aren’t life-threatening. But they may damage your heart muscle if they repeatedly occur for a long period.
Symptoms
When to see a doctor
Complications
- High blood pressure.
- Diabetes.
- Heart failure.
- Some types of heart valve disease.
Prevention
- Control high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
- Don't smoke or use tobacco.
- Eat a diet that's low in salt and saturated fat.
- Exercise at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week unless your health care team says not to.
- Get good sleep. Adults should aim for 7 to 9 hours daily.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Reduce and manage stress.
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