Are PVCs life threatening?
PVCs can develop at any time and in all ages. PVCs can occur in otherwise healthy individuals with no other heart problems or in conjunction with other heart diseases. While PVCs may not be life-threatening on their own, they can make the heart function less effectively and cause other more serious problems.
When should I worry about Extrasystoles?
Most extrasystoles are harmless, and often perceived as “missed heartbeats”. However, they can be a sign of heart disease, so you should always consult a doctor if you are experiencing any of the typical symptoms (see below), to rule out, or diagnose, a heart condition.
Can a ventricular extrasystole be a symptom?
Ventricular extrasystoles are isolated beats common in clinical practice, and can be symptomatic (giving palpitations as a symptom) or asymptomatic. In this case, the finding of arrhythmia is usually random, mostly during screening visits. In most cases these arrhythmias are benign and do not require any intervention.
When do isolated ventricular extrasystoles increase in prevalence?
The prevalence of isolated ventricular extrasystoles generally increases with age and with the presence of heart diseases. In normal subjects, isolated ventricular extrasystoles are found in about 1% of subjects subjected to standard ECG.
What to do about frequent ventricular extrasystoles ( PVC )?
It is a relatively common occurrence for cardiovascular clinicians to see patients with frequent premature ventricular contractions. Frequent and apparently idiopathic PVCs are usually considered a benign condition that can be managed with conservative measures. B-blockers are usually very effective.
How is ECG holter used to diagnose extrasystoles?
ECG Holter enables the evaluation of the number of extrasystoles, the presence of any repetitive forms (unsupported ventricular tachycardias), the presence of any R-on-T phenomena, and the circadian trend of extrasystoles. These characteristics have diagnostic and prognostic significance.