When your heart skips a beat or gets premature beats: what you need to know
What Are Ventricular Ectopics?
Ventricular ectopics, also called premature ventricular contractions (PVCs), are extra heartbeats that originate in the heart’s lower chambers (ventricles). While most of us experience these at some point, they are usually benign, especially in people with a structurally normal heart.
During a ventricular ectopic beat, your heart may feel like it skips a beat, flutters, or momentarily pauses, which can understandably be alarming. These extra beats are common and often harmless, but sometimes they require investigation to rule out underlying heart conditions.
Symptoms You Might Notice
Many people with ventricular ectopics have no symptoms at all. When they do occur, common sensations include:
Fluttering or “butterflies” in the chest
A strong “thump” or skipped beat
Shortness of breath
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Symptoms more noticeable at rest or in the evening/ before sleep
Symptoms may appear sporadically, sometimes weeks or months apart. If you notice these signs, it’s wise to book a heart screening to ensure your heart is healthy.
Are Ventricular Ectopics Dangerous?
For most people with a normal heart structure, ventricular ectopics are not dangerous and usually don’t require treatment. However, in patients with structural heart disease, PVCs can indicate a higher risk of other heart rhythm problems.
That’s why a thorough evaluation is important, including cardiac tests to rule out underlying heart conditions.
Common Causes and Triggers
Some people notice their ectopic beats more after certain triggers. Common contributors include:
Caffeine or energy drinks
Alcohol
Fatigue or poor sleep
Stress
Hormonal changes (e.g., pregnancy, menopause)
Rarely, viral infections of the heart lining (myocarditis)
Diagnosis: How We Investigate PVCs
If you experience symptoms, your cardiologist will perform a detailed evaluation and may recommend tests, including:
Electrocardiogram (ECG): Records your heart’s electrical activity
Holter monitor: Continuous ECG over 24–48 hours to measure ectopic burden (percentage of abnormal beats)
Echocardiogram or Cardiac MRI: Checks heart structure and function
Blood tests: Assess electrolytes and thyroid function
Understanding the ectopic burden helps guide whether treatment is needed.
Treatment Options
Most ventricular ectopics in a normal heart don’t require treatment, and lifestyle changes are often sufficient:
Reduce caffeine and alcohol intake
Improve sleep habits
Manage stress
Stop smoking
Medications may be used if symptoms persist or the ectopics are frequent.
Catheter Ablation:For patients with frequent or symptomatic PVCs from a single site, catheter ablation is a highly effective, minimally invasive procedure. During this treatment:
Thin wires are guided into the heart from the leg.
A 3D map identifies the exact source of the ectopic beats.
High-frequency energy eliminates the abnormal electrical signals.
Safety and Recovery:
Same-day discharge is common
Success rate >85% in suitable patients
Risks are low (1–2%) and include minor bleeding or, rarely, temporary complications
Living With Ventricular Ectopics
Even with occasional PVCs, most people can lead normal, active lives. Regular follow-ups, lifestyle adjustments, and, if needed, safe medical procedures ensure your heart remains healthy.
If you’re experiencing fluttering, skipped beats, or other irregular heart sensations, book an appointment with our heart specialists today.