From the Guidelines
Premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) occurring 0.1% of the time in a person without a pacemaker is generally considered normal and typically requires no treatment. This frequency translates to approximately 1 PVC per 1,000 heartbeats, which falls well within the range of what cardiologists consider benign 1. Most healthy adults experience occasional PVCs, and when they occur this infrequently, they usually don't cause symptoms or indicate any underlying heart disease. PVCs at this low frequency don't typically affect heart function or increase risk for more serious arrhythmias. The heart's electrical system occasionally generates early beats from the ventricles, causing that characteristic "skipped beat" sensation some people notice, though many with infrequent PVCs remain completely asymptomatic.
Some key points to consider:
- PVCs are common and increase in frequency with age 1
- The presence of PVCs on monitoring is associated with increased risk of both ischemic heart disease events and mortality, but this is more relevant for frequent PVCs 1
- In the general population, frequent PVCs are associated with increased cardiovascular risk and increased mortality, but a frequency of 0.1% is not considered frequent 1
- If a person experiences no symptoms and has no other cardiac risk factors, routine monitoring during regular check-ups is usually sufficient, as recommended by the American Heart Association and American College of Cardiology 1.
However, if PVCs increase in frequency or become symptomatic with palpitations, dizziness, or shortness of breath, medical evaluation would be recommended to rule out underlying cardiac conditions such as structural abnormalities or channelopathies 1. Annual cardiological evaluation may be required for athletes with PVCs >2000 per 24 hours, but this is not applicable for a frequency of 0.1% 1.
From the Research
Effects of Premature Ventricular Contractions (PVCs) on the Heart
- PVCs are a type of abnormal heart rhythm, or arrhythmia, that originates in the ventricles 2.
- A person without a pacemaker experiencing PVCs 0.1% of the time may not experience significant symptoms or complications, as the heart is still able to function normally most of the time.
Potential Complications of PVCs
- However, frequent or persistent PVCs can lead to complications such as:
- It is essential to monitor and manage PVCs to prevent these complications, especially in individuals with underlying heart conditions.
Monitoring and Management of PVCs
- Electrocardiographic (ECG) monitoring can be used to diagnose and monitor PVCs 5.
- Beta-blockers, such as metoprolol, can be used to manage PVCs and reduce the risk of complications [(2,4,6)].
- In some cases, other medications or treatments, such as flecainide, may be necessary to manage PVCs [(2,4)].
Importance of Medical Evaluation
- If a person without a pacemaker is experiencing PVCs, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and management [(5,6)].
- A healthcare professional can determine the underlying cause of the PVCs and develop an appropriate treatment plan to prevent complications and improve overall heart health.