It involves passing fine wires into the heart from the top of the leg in a minimally invasive procedure. Medications – these are used to suppress the ectopics and improve symptoms.Ĭatheter ablation – if the ectopic beats originate from one site, then this treatment is used. Simple lifestyle measures such as reducing caffeine and alcohol intake, smoking less or quitting overall, improving sleeping habits and reducing stress is sufficient to improve or eliminate symptoms. The condition is likely to be benign in many patients. How are ventricular ectopic beats treated? It helps to determine if the ectopic beats are originating from one site or from multiple sites, which guides treatment. It also rules out heart muscle disease (cardiomyopathy).īlood tests are also performed to look for other causes such as abnormal electrolyte levels, such as sodium and potassium, and thyroid function.Ī continuous ECG monitor also establishes the ‘ectopic burden’, which measures the percentage of ectopic beats when compared to all your heartbeats. If the patient experiences frequent ectopic beats, an echocardiogram (heart ultrasound) or cardiac MRI scan may be performed to confirm that the heart has a normal structure and function. Patients will have an electrocardiogram ( ECG) to provide a general overview of the heart. The cardiologist will take a detailed history and examination to establish if there is a potential underlying cause, such as lifestyle factors or a family history of heart disease. Will I need further investigation for the cause of extra heartbeats? Hormonal changes – seen in pregnancy or menopause.The commonest causes of extra heartbeats include: Some experience these symptoms intermittently, with weeks or months between. Many people experience these conditions sporadically or with no particular triggers.

These symptoms of an extra heartbeat are often experienced at night or when resting because the heart rate is lower at rest and asleep, allowing the ectopic beats more time to occur. Feeling like the heart has skipped a beat – proceeded by a short pause.In a smaller group of people who have evidence of structural heart disease, ventricular ectopics can be a marker of increased risks. In the majority of patients who have a structurally normal heart, extra heartbeats are almost always benign and don’t require treatment unless they cause other symptoms. The ventricular ectopic beats occur prematurely, which causes the heart to beat in a different way for that beat. Expert cardiologist Dr Syed Ahsan discusses ventricular ectopic beats (extra heartbeats), a condition which may happen more frequently in certain people, and exactly when you should see a specialist.Īlmost all of us will have ventricular ectopic beats, which are extra heartbeats that originate in the bottom chambers of the heart (the ventricles).Ī normal heartbeat occurs from the top of the heart (the atria). Generally when the heart skips, or has an extra beat, it’s not usually dangerous. The occasional feeling of butterflies in the chest can be a disturbing experience for some people.

Extra heartbeat dizziness