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We provide our users the most up-to-date and accurate information on the treatment and prevention of cardio pathologies in accordance with current American and European clinical guidelines.
The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a licensed physician for diagnosis and treatment.
Understanding Extrasystoles
Introduction
Extrasystoles are premature heartbeats that originate from the atria (atrial extrasystoles) or the ventricles (ventricular extrasystoles). They disrupt the normal heart rhythm but are often benign, especially in healthy individuals.
Causes of Extrasystoles
Extrasystoles can be triggered by various factors, including: - Stress and anxiety - Excessive caffeine or alcohol consumption - Electrolyte imbalances (e.g., potassium, magnesium deficiencies) - Heart disease (such as coronary artery disease or cardiomyopathy) - Medications (such as stimulants or certain asthma drugs)
Symptoms of Extrasystoles
Many people do not experience any symptoms. However, some may feel: - Palpitations (a fluttering or skipping sensation in the chest) - Increased awareness of heartbeats - Occasional dizziness or discomfort
Diagnosis
To diagnose extrasystoles, doctors may recommend: - Electrocardiogram (ECG) – a primary tool for detecting premature beats - Holter monitoring – continuous ECG recording over 24 to 48 hours - Echocardiogram – to assess structural heart health - Electrolyte and thyroid function tests
Treatment Options
Most cases of extrasystoles do not require treatment, but if they become frequent or symptomatic, management options include: - Lifestyle modifications (reducing stress, avoiding stimulants) - Medication (beta-blockers or antiarrhythmic drugs if needed) - Treatment of underlying conditions (such as correcting thyroid dysfunction or electrolyte imbalances)
When to See a Doctor
Seek medical advice if: - Extrasystoles are frequent and cause discomfort - They are associated with chest pain, fainting, or shortness of breath - You have a history of heart disease or risk factors for cardiac problems
Conclusion
Extrasystoles are common and usually harmless, but persistent symptoms should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
Source recommendations
1. American Heart Association Guidelines on Arrhythmias
- https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/arrhythmia
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001193
- https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/arrhythmia/about-arrhythmia
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000000549
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29084733/
2. European Society of Cardiology Guidelines on Ventricular Arrhythmias and Sudden Cardiac Death
- https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Ventricular-Arrhythmias-and-the-Prevention-of-Sudden-Cardiac-Death
- https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/43/40/3997/6675633
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000000549
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36017572/
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2405500X22010945
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If you or your loved ones experience any of these symptoms, you should consult a doctor in time. Remember that self-medication can be dangerous, and timely diagnosis will preserve the quality and life expectancy.
The heart is an organ that does not know how to "keep silent" if something goes wrong. Chest pain, shortness of breath, swelling, dizziness, and rhythm disturbances are the symptoms that require our attention. The best prevention of heart disease is careful attention to your health, regular checkups with a doctor, and a healthy lifestyle. Take care of your heart, and it will serve you for many years!
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