What’s an ectopic heartbeat?

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An ectopic heartbeat is, in simple terms, an irregular heartbeat and rhythm characterized by skipped or extra beats. It’s a slight variation in what an otherwise normal rhythm and heartbeat would be. Other terms for an ectopic heartbeat include extrasystole, premature ventricular beat (PVB), premature ventricular contraction, and premature beats.
This condition, although it is an anomaly, generally does not get the concern that other abnormalities involving the heartbeat and rhythms get because it is usually harmless. It could, however, be a sign of a more serious heart condition developing, particularly if other symptoms and signs are present. An ectopic heartbeat can be experienced without overt provocation or an obvious cause, especially in adults. Children, unless they have congenital heart disease, very rarely have irregular heart rhythms or beats.

There are times when there is a clue as to what could be causing an ectopic heartbeat in an adult. Chemical problems in the blood and any problem or condition that interferes with a sufficient supply of oxygenated blood to the heart can cause these types of irregularities in rhythm and beats. Other causes are related to diet and lifestyle. For example, an ectopic heartbeat is made worse by caffeine, illegal drugs, some prescription drugs, smoking, and drinking alcoholic beverages. People suffering from this or any other type of heart disorder are strongly encouraged to eat a healthy diet while avoiding harmful substances, including secondhand smoke.

Ectopic heartbeat symptoms include sensations of a missed beat and occasional heartbeats that are unusually strong. A sign of this condition is an irregular pulse. Some people, however, do not experience any symptoms and blood pressure readings tend to remain normal unless high or low blood pressure has already been confirmed on a previous occasion. Those who have symptoms are encouraged to see a doctor to verify that nothing other than an ectopic heartbeat is happening.

Physical exams may not reveal the presence of an ectopic heartbeat, which is understandable considering that the irregularity in the beats may not show up on the exam. Other tests, however, may be ordered to confirm that suspicion. These tests include continuous ambulatory cardiac monitoring, coronary angiography, and readings obtained from the use of an electrocardiogram (ECG). It is important for doctors to find out if there is an underlying cause of the heart rhythm and irregular heartbeats, especially if the condition persists or is accompanied by discomfort.

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