Ventricular Premature Complexes (VPCs) are a type of abnormal heart rhythm, also known as arrhythmia, that originate in the ventricles of the heart. The ventricles are the lower chambers of the heart responsible for pumping blood to the rest of the body.
A VPC occurs when an abnormal electrical impulse is generated in the ventricles before the usual sinus impulse from the heart's natural pacemaker. This premature impulse disrupts the heart's normal rhythm, causing an early contraction of the ventricles. As a result, a VPC is often described as a skipped beat or an extra beat.
These premature complexes can be identified on an electrocardiogram (ECG) as QRS complexes that are wider and taller than the QRS complexes generated by the normal sinus rhythm. The abnormal QRS complexes are followed by a compensatory pause, as the heart resets itself after the premature beat. Individuals experiencing VPCs may feel palpitations, a fluttering sensation in the chest, or even a pause in the heart rhythm.
VPCs can occur in individuals with a healthy heart, but they are also associated with various heart conditions, such as coronary artery disease, cardiomyopathy, or heart failure. Other factors that can trigger VPCs include stimulants like nicotine, caffeine, or certain medications.
While occasional VPCs are generally harmless, frequent or complex VPCs may require further evaluation and treatment. Treatment options may include managing underlying heart conditions, discontinuing trigger substances, or prescribing antiarrhythmic medications. In severe cases, implantable devices or catheter ablation procedures may be considered. Regular cardiovascular check-ups and lifestyle modifications may also be recommended to reduce the risk of complications associated with VPCs.
