Premature ventricular contractions

Extra heartbeats that begin in one of the lower heart chambers.

Description

Extra heartbeats that begin in one of the lower heart chambers.

Overview

Premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) are a common type of irregular heartbeat, called an arrhythmia. Heart muscle damage and some types of heart disease may cause PVCs. Using some medicines such as those to treat a stuffy nose or stimulants such as caffeine may cause the extra beats. Other causes include alcohol or drug misuse and anxiety.

Symptoms

PVC symptoms may include a fluttering, pounding or jumping feeling in the chest. Some people feel a missed or skipped beat. Some people do not have symptoms.

Treatments

PVCs in people without heart disease usually aren't a concern. Treatment may be needed if PVCs occur very often or if there is another heart problem. Treatment may include lifestyle changes, medicines and a procedure that uses heat energy to create tiny scars in the heart that block the irregular beats.