Mine started in my 20's. Each year, the frequency increased. Now I am 76. Have them every single day now, about every five minutes or so. So its constant now. I walk on my treadmill every other day for 30-40 mins at 3 to 3.5 Mph and dont have them while walking. The heart seems fine. Yes, it has made me depressed. Despite being told, they are harmless. I dont believe every one has them. Would not the whole world be walking around depressed? They are pretty awful. I live but gosh, I feel every single one and just hate them. And my load is only like 1% or so. I have cholestrol issues and blood pressure. So on top of all that, this. I have tried breathing exercies, 4 in, 6 out, but I am not sure it works. My doctor also gave me Flecnide. But after reading about it, I too have decided not to take it. I was on 25 mg of Metaprolol and had no effect. I blip right through it. They have now upped it to 25 mg, twice a day, still no effect. I drink water, take Vit D, Mag etc. But nothing works. Not even Ativan. I would like to take Lexapro but apprently it is not friendly with blood pressure medications. I read the Sertraline is better. I am productive and do what I have to, but it has taken the joy out of live. I feel for you.