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Premature Ventricular Contractions & Patient Information

Premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) are abnormal extra heart beats that begin in the lower chambers of the heart. Most people have PVCs at some point in their lives, and they are harmless in the absence of heart disease.

  1. Symptoms

    • People who have premature ventricular contractions may feel a fluttering sensation or pounding in their chest, along with an increased awareness of the heart beat.

    Causes of Premature Ventricular Contractions

    • Changes in body chemistry, medications, alcohol, caffeine, high blood pressure or injury to the heart muscle are the main causes of premature ventricular contractions.

    What Is Happening During Premature Ventricular Contractions?

    • One of the lower chambers of the heart, usually the left ventricle, prematurely receives an electrical impulse to contract and the heart's electrical system resets, which causes a brief pause in the heart beat.

    How Common Are PVCs?

    • PVCs are very common, particularly in older people, or those with high blood pressure or heart disease. PVCs can occur in healthy people due to anxiety or stress.

    Treatment

    • Eliminating such things as caffeine and tobacco can decrease the frequency of premature ventricular contractions. Medications such as beta blockers and calcium channel blockers may be prescribed to lower blood pressure and relax blood vessels, respectively.

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