About-Cardio
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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.
Premature Ventricular Contractions (PVCs): Causes and Risk Factors
Introduction
Premature Ventricular Contractions (PVCs) are extra heartbeats that originate in the ventricles, disrupting the normal heart rhythm. While they are common and often benign, frequent PVCs may indicate underlying heart conditions.
Causes of PVCs
1. Heart-Related Causes
- Coronary artery disease (CAD) – Reduced blood supply to the heart can irritate the ventricles.
- Previous heart attack (myocardial infarction) – Scarred tissue can trigger abnormal electrical impulses.
- Heart failure – Enlarged or weakened heart muscle increases the likelihood of PVCs.
- Structural heart disease – Cardiomyopathies and valvular diseases affect heart function.
2. Electrolyte Imbalances
- Low levels of potassium, magnesium, and calcium can disrupt heart rhythm and trigger PVCs.
3. Stimulants and Lifestyle Factors
- Excessive caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine can provoke PVCs.
- Illicit drugs (e.g., cocaine, amphetamines) can overstimulate the heart.
- High levels of stress and anxiety can increase PVC occurrence.
4. Hormonal Changes
- Thyroid disorders (hyperthyroidism) can make the heart more prone to PVCs.
- Menstrual cycle fluctuations may trigger PVCs in some individuals.
5. Medication Side Effects and Medical Conditions
- Certain medications, such as decongestants, asthma medications, or some antidepressants, can increase PVC risks.
- Sleep disorders (e.g., sleep apnea) are associated with an increased frequency of PVCs.
When to See a Doctor?
PVCs are often harmless, but you should seek medical attention if: - You experience frequent PVCs (thousands per day). - You have symptoms like dizziness, fainting, or chest pain. - You have a history of heart disease.
Conclusion
While occasional PVCs are relatively common, persistent or symptomatic PVCs require medical evaluation. A healthy lifestyle, electrolyte balance, and regular cardiovascular check-ups can help manage and reduce PVCs.
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
- 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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Every 3-5 years, half of the scientific approaches to treatment in the field of cardiology are reviewed as a result of specialized scientific discoveries. With us, you don't have to wait these years to learn about the best ways to treat you and your loved ones.