What causes an episode of premature ventricular contractions (PVCs)?

Posted by robbie1956 @robbie1956, Sep 14, 2020

Always wondered what causes an episode of PVCs; not just a daily skip or run of 4 or several skips...but an episode that lasts on and off for days or weeks but then just seem to subside and go away for quite awhile....

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I am 65. I've had PVC's for many years on a sporadic basis. In 2016, something was different. Holter monitor picked up PVC's, atrial tachycardia and the more worrisome ventricular tachyardia. Metoprolol 12.5mg twiceaday has the situation nicely controlled. The tachycardias are heart electricity problems. I know PVCs and all the other arrythmias can be made worse when under stress. I only drink decaffeinated beverages now. I also try to walk most days. I believe that helps me but the betablocker (metoprolol) has been a godsend.

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@sue225

I am 65. I've had PVC's for many years on a sporadic basis. In 2016, something was different. Holter monitor picked up PVC's, atrial tachycardia and the more worrisome ventricular tachyardia. Metoprolol 12.5mg twiceaday has the situation nicely controlled. The tachycardias are heart electricity problems. I know PVCs and all the other arrythmias can be made worse when under stress. I only drink decaffeinated beverages now. I also try to walk most days. I believe that helps me but the betablocker (metoprolol) has been a godsend.

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@sue225

Thanks, I also am on metoprolol 25mg twice a day, with other BP Meds.....I am very grateful for all of the Meds and medical care I’ve received through the years...but my anxiety over these extended bouts is something I just can’t deal with lightly....still would love to know why these episodes start seemingly out of nowhere and then run their course....mystery to me..but glad you’re doing well..I walk also.

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@robbie1956 maybe you've already asked...but what does your doctor say re the cause?

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I wore a holtor monitor and it showed AFIB and PVC'S. The AFIB is controlled by 37 1/2 mg of metopropol but that doesn't seem to control the PVC's. They occur ramdomly but seem to be coming about 15 minutes after eating. Although, I had them this morning too. My cardiologist doesn't seem worried but like you all, they make me feel terrible. I am unable to walk much because of arthritis in my feet and the possibility of another hip replacement. Something I am trying to avoid as I am at high risk. I limit my decaf drinks as my PC said they still have caffeine in them. That has helped. Do they feel like AFIB but you don't pass out? I appreciate any information. Thanks, Joan

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@sue225

@robbie1956 maybe you've already asked...but what does your doctor say re the cause?

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@sue225
After a couple of work ups over the years, and a cath in 2003 that showed a compensated right blockage...11years later on a nuclear stress test there was no sign is ischemia...all my recent tests show normal function and EF ratio 60-65%. My Cardiologist
Have always called them ‘random phenomena’ and that the Meds I’m on are really all they would recommend...but every time as time passes and I get older, I always feel that this time it’s different....it’s just when I lay down or sit in a position, along with belching , my sleep gets broken up and my nerves get all shot.....but I’m hoping this isn’t going on by the 30th of Sept. that’s when I see my Cardiologist.....thanks

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@jmb73

I wore a holtor monitor and it showed AFIB and PVC'S. The AFIB is controlled by 37 1/2 mg of metopropol but that doesn't seem to control the PVC's. They occur ramdomly but seem to be coming about 15 minutes after eating. Although, I had them this morning too. My cardiologist doesn't seem worried but like you all, they make me feel terrible. I am unable to walk much because of arthritis in my feet and the possibility of another hip replacement. Something I am trying to avoid as I am at high risk. I limit my decaf drinks as my PC said they still have caffeine in them. That has helped. Do they feel like AFIB but you don't pass out? I appreciate any information. Thanks, Joan

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@jmb73 I get pesky PVCs when an episode rears up lasting for days or weeks...it’s disruptive, not normal and to me, scary....so, I wish I could be more help with AFIB, but my problem is the PVCs...and then, after an ugly episode runs its course, they go away for quite awhile...it’s never been explained why...thanks

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@robbie1956

@sue225
After a couple of work ups over the years, and a cath in 2003 that showed a compensated right blockage...11years later on a nuclear stress test there was no sign is ischemia...all my recent tests show normal function and EF ratio 60-65%. My Cardiologist
Have always called them ‘random phenomena’ and that the Meds I’m on are really all they would recommend...but every time as time passes and I get older, I always feel that this time it’s different....it’s just when I lay down or sit in a position, along with belching , my sleep gets broken up and my nerves get all shot.....but I’m hoping this isn’t going on by the 30th of Sept. that’s when I see my Cardiologist.....thanks

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Sometimes I think in my case there is a link between acid reflux and PVC's.

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@sue225

Sometimes I think in my case there is a link between acid reflux and PVC's.

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@sue225 Yes I have reflux also....PPI twice a day...
York Cardiology’s youtube videos on the connection are very good ...still when these episodes interfere with your sleep 💤, well like everyone who experiences these sensations, it just makes you feel crummy....thanks

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A few years ago(Fri. the 13th, LOL) I had my first ride in an ambulance/rescue squad to hospital. I went to my local clinic because normally my heart skipping a beat would go away. This time it didn't. It was skip, then put an extra beat in. Once at hospital no matter what they tried, they could not get my heart to stop. So they upped my metoprolol. I now take 200mgs. once a day. Sure is a lot more than what most people that replied to this are taking. I did have high blood pressure before. I do not drink any caffeine. If it ever happens again I am told that I must immediately go to the ER. So far so good.

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@saleha59

A few years ago(Fri. the 13th, LOL) I had my first ride in an ambulance/rescue squad to hospital. I went to my local clinic because normally my heart skipping a beat would go away. This time it didn't. It was skip, then put an extra beat in. Once at hospital no matter what they tried, they could not get my heart to stop. So they upped my metoprolol. I now take 200mgs. once a day. Sure is a lot more than what most people that replied to this are taking. I did have high blood pressure before. I do not drink any caffeine. If it ever happens again I am told that I must immediately go to the ER. So far so good.

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@saleha59 In your area, would it be possible to get a second opinion? Metoprolol slows the heart rate. Do you drag through the day?h

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