What are PVCs?

Premature Ventricular Contractions (PVCs) are extra heartbeats that start in the lower chambers of your heart. These are common, often harmless, but they can be concerning if frequent or persistent.

2. Symptoms of PVCs

•PVCs can cause:

• A sensation of skipped or extra heartbeats

• Chest discomfort or fluttering

• Fatigue or lightheadedness (in rare cases)

Most of the time, PVCs are harmless and go unnoticed.

3. When Should You Be Concerned?

In some cases, frequent PVCs can lead to PVC-induced cardiomyopathy, a condition where your heart weakens due to too many extra beats (over 10-20% of your total heartbeats). This is when treatment becomes essential to protect your heart health.

4. Treatment Options for PVCs

• Ablation (For Severe Cases)

• What is it? A minimally invasive procedure where an electrophysiologist maps your heart to locate the source of PVCs. They use radiofrequency to destroy the tissue causing the irregular beats.

• When to consider it? Typically, ablation is reserved for cases where medications don’t work, or if you have PVC-induced cardiomyopathy.

Medications (For Moderate Cases)

• Common Medications:

• Beta Blockers

• Calcium Channel Blockers

These medications reduce the frequency of PVCs and are usually well-tolerated, though some side effects may occur.

Lifestyle Changes (For Mild Cases)

For most people, simple lifestyle adjustments can greatly reduce PVCs:

• Identify triggers like caffeine, alcohol, stress, or lack of sleep.

• Magnesium Supplements: This over-the-counter supplement can help reduce PVCs.

5. How to Choose the Best Treatment

The best treatment plan depends on how many PVCs you're having and the impact on your heart:

1. Cardiac Monitoring: Wearing a heart monitor helps measure the number of PVCs over time.

2. Treatment Recommendations:

• High PVC Count: Medications or ablation may be recommended.

• Low PVC Count: Focus on lifestyle changes first and monitor if symptoms worsen.

In rare, severe cases, a combination of lifestyle changes, medications, and potentially ablation may be necessary.

6. Key Takeaways

• PVCs are generally benign but should be monitored if frequent.

• Most people manage well with simple lifestyle changes and, if necessary, magnesium supplements.

• More invasive treatments are available if PVCs are causing heart problems.

7. Free Heart Health Guide

To learn more about maintaining a healthy heart, download my FREE Heart Health Guide.