Supraventricular Ectopic Beats (SVEBs)

Introduction

Supraventricular ectopic beats (SVEBs), also known as premature atrial contractions (PACs) or atrial ectopic beats, are extra heartbeats that originate in the atria (upper chambers of the heart). These beats occur earlier than the next expected normal heartbeat and can cause an irregular heart rhythm.

Causes and Risk Factors

SVEBs can occur in healthy individuals or in those with underlying heart conditions. Common causes include:

• Lifestyle Factors: Stress, caffeine, alcohol, smoking, and lack of sleep.
• Heart Conditions: Hypertension, coronary artery disease, heart failure, or valvular heart diseases.
• Electrolyte Imbalances: Low potassium or magnesium levels.
• Medication Effects: Certain stimulants, decongestants, or asthma medications can trigger SVEBs.
• Hormonal Changes: Thyroid disorders or menopause.

Symptoms

Most people with SVEBs do not experience symptoms. However, some may notice:

• Palpitations (a feeling of the heart skipping or beating too fast)
• Fluttering in the chest
• Mild chest discomfort
• Occasional dizziness or shortness of breath

Diagnosis

SVEBs are usually detected through an electrocardiogram (ECG) or Holter monitoring (a 24-hour continuous ECG recording). If symptoms persist, additional tests like an echocardiogram may be needed to evaluate heart structure and function.

Treatment & Management

Lifestyle Changes

• Reduce caffeine, alcohol, and smoking.
• Manage stress through relaxation techniques.
• Maintain proper hydration and electrolyte balance.

Medical Treatment

• Beta-blockers (for frequent symptomatic SVEBs)
• Anti-arrhythmic medications (if SVEBs lead to more serious arrhythmias)
• Catheter ablation (in severe cases where ectopic beats are frequent and bothersome)

When to See a Doctor?

Seek medical attention if you experience: - Frequent palpitations with dizziness, fainting, or chest pain. - Persistent and worsening episodes of heart irregularities. - Signs of an underlying heart disease, such as fatigue or swelling in the legs.

Conclusion

Supraventricular ectopic beats are common and usually benign, but they can sometimes indicate an underlying heart condition. A healthy lifestyle and regular medical check-ups can help manage and reduce their occurrence.

Source recommendations

1. American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Guidelines on the Management of Arrhythmias

1. https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001193
2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14557344/
3. https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000000549
4. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16949478/
5. https://www.acc.org/Guidelines

2. European Society of Cardiology Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Management of Supraventricular Arrhythmias

1. https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Supraventricular-Tachycardia
2. https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001193
3. https://www.escardio.org/static-file/Escardio/Guidelines/Documents/ehaa612.pdf
4. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31504425/
5. https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/01.cir.0000091380.04100.84