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Heart Rhythm Conditions – Welcome to the group
Heart Rhythm Conditions | Last Active: 22 hours ago | Replies (1441)Comment receiving replies
Hi my name is Kim. I am a 63 year old single mom of a mentally and physically challenged adult child. I recently (since March of 2026) have been experiencing heart palpitations. I just was diagnosed with PACs and a mild Tricuspid valve regurgitation. I have had a cardiac workup of an halter monitor, ECHO and a stress test. I was just told by my cardiologist not to worry about the PACs and that my heart is totally normal. My concern is that my "PACs" seem to be getting worse with physical activity resulting in 4 rapid beats followed by the skipped beat (it used to be 2 quick beats follwed by the skipped beat) several times when I stop exercising. I also have increased shortness if breath and have to sit down because I don't feel very well. I expressed these concerns to my cardiologist but he didn't seem concerned and told me to keep exercising because it should reduce the PACs. Should I be concerned or just continue to exercise as directed and not worry? Any thoughts would be appreciated.
Replies to "Hi my name is Kim. I am a 63 year old single mom of a mentally..."
@kad13 After my ablation for A-fib, I also had some episodes of PACs which the cardiologist told me was not unusual and that many people have them. He said my heart was just readjusting to "normal" rhythm after the ablation. While I could "feel" the "skipped beats" which is what they seem like but actually are not exactly that, I never felt short of breath or unwell. I think that something else may be going on with you. You really shouldn't feel short of breath from these. I agree with the other writer; ask for an appointment with an EP (electrophysiologist) to get some real answers to your concerns. I am 80 and you are only 63. You should not be told just to "live with it" as many women do not get as much attention with heart issues as men. Listen to your body; if it doesn't feel right then something is off. I am a retired nurse and I can tell you that you have to advocate for yourself, do some research and don't take "you'll be fine" for an answer if you don't feel fine. Good luck and stay well.
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@kad13
Please book an appointment with an electrophysiologist (EP), a specialist in diagnosing and treating heart rhythm problems. It is a mistake to follow only the guidance of a general cardiologist. Generally speaking, an EO will be much more proactive than others. They know well the downside of waving off
heart arrhythmias.
Also, see the most highly rated EP you can find, often at a major teaching hospital. Send your existing records ahead of your appointment for review. Good luck!