Premature heart contraction refers to an irregularity in the normal rhythm of the heart, where the organ exhibits a sudden and early contraction before completing its resting phase. Also known as premature ventricular contractions (PVCs), these abnormal contractions arise from the ventricles, the lower chambers of the heart responsible for pumping blood to the rest of the body.
In a typical heartbeat, an electrical signal originates from the heart's natural pacemaker, the sinoatrial (SA) node, and propagates through the atria (upper chambers) before reaching the ventricles. This process ensures a synchronous contraction of the heart, efficiently pumping oxygenated blood to vital organs. However, in cases of premature heart contraction, an additional electrical signal or impulse occurs before the usual signal from the SA node.
This extra electrical impulse can disrupt the normal rhythm and cause the ventricles to contract prematurely. Premature heart contractions may be asymptomatic and go unnoticed, or they can lead to palpitations, a sensation of skipped or missed beats, chest discomfort, or an irregular heartbeat. While occasional premature contractions are relatively common and harmless, experiencing frequent or prolonged episodes warrants medical attention, as it can indicate an underlying heart condition or lifestyle factors that may need intervention.
A thorough medical evaluation, including cardiac tests such as electrocardiogram (ECG) and echocardiogram, can help diagnose premature heart contractions and identify the root cause. Treatment options vary depending on the severity and frequency of these contractions, ranging from reassurance and regular monitoring to lifestyle modifications, medication, or additional interventions like catheter ablation. Efficient management aims to alleviate symptoms, prevent further cardiac complications, and improve overall heart health.
