Ventricular Premature Complex (VPC), also known as premature ventricular contractions (PVCs), is a term used to describe an irregular heartbeat that originates in the ventricles of the heart. The ventricles are the lower chambers responsible for pumping oxygenated blood to the body's organs and tissues. In a normal heartbeat, electrical signals travel a specific pathway in the heart, starting from the sinoatrial (SA) node and passing through the atrioventricular (AV) node to reach the ventricles. However, in the case of VPCs, an abnormal electrical impulse arises within the ventricles, causing a premature contraction that disrupts the heart's regular rhythm.
These premature contractions can be experienced as a skipped or extra heartbeat felt by the individual. VPCs are commonly benign and may occur in individuals with healthy hearts, usually without causing noticeable symptoms or requiring treatment. However, in certain cases, frequent or complex VPCs can be indicative of an underlying heart condition, such as heart disease, electrolyte imbalances, or structural abnormalities.
Medical professionals typically diagnose VPCs by analyzing the electrocardiogram (ECG) readings, which reveal abnormal patterns in the heart's electrical activity. Treatment for VPCs may not be necessary if they occur infrequently and do not produce symptoms. However, if VPCs significantly impair the heart's ability to pump blood effectively or are associated with concerning symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness, medical intervention may be necessary. Treatment options may include lifestyle modifications, medication management, or, in more severe cases, procedures such as catheter ablation to eliminate the source of the abnormal electrical signals in the heart. Regular monitoring and follow-up appointments with a healthcare provider
