Excessive PVCS and exercise concerns

Posted by birdie63 @birdie63, Dec 1, 2023

I was recently diagnosed as having 22 PVCS and referred to electrophysiologist. The cardiologist who dxd this said "it was just a nuisance" and wasn't dangerous and no risk of stroke or heart attack. Everything I am reading is saying different. Is it safe to exercise with this % of PVCS if I am frequently lightheaded? I don't see electrocardiologist for another month. What's the risk with this? Thank you.

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The post should read 22 % or 22000 PVCs Not 22.

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I would not exercise, but that's just me. Walking, even slightly briskly once warmed up, will probably be best, but heavy lifting, sprints, hill and stair climbing as part of a fitness regimen, indoor treadmills....nope, not for me. Even an electrophysiologist might suggest that you not be overly concerned at this point, but you really need to ask one. A second opinion, IOW.

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@gloaming

I would not exercise, but that's just me. Walking, even slightly briskly once warmed up, will probably be best, but heavy lifting, sprints, hill and stair climbing as part of a fitness regimen, indoor treadmills....nope, not for me. Even an electrophysiologist might suggest that you not be overly concerned at this point, but you really need to ask one. A second opinion, IOW.

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Thank you for the comments. I was surprised to be told the level of the PVCS, the need for a referral ASAP to specialist but the cardiologist didn't think it was a concern to exercise. Also, had an episode two weeks ago that resembled a stroke (code blue to ED in middle of night) and specialist said it wasn't connected to heart issue. (Neurologist order MRI to rule out TIA) Will wait to talk to electro doc but am confused with mixed messages. PVCS are constant not sporadic. Told it is as if I am running a constant marathon. Trying not to stress about any of this but concerned exercising could make this worse.

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@birdie63

Thank you for the comments. I was surprised to be told the level of the PVCS, the need for a referral ASAP to specialist but the cardiologist didn't think it was a concern to exercise. Also, had an episode two weeks ago that resembled a stroke (code blue to ED in middle of night) and specialist said it wasn't connected to heart issue. (Neurologist order MRI to rule out TIA) Will wait to talk to electro doc but am confused with mixed messages. PVCS are constant not sporadic. Told it is as if I am running a constant marathon. Trying not to stress about any of this but concerned exercising could make this worse.

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birdie63, You really need the advise on exercising from your cardiologist and/or EP. I really suggest you see a Electrophysioloigst (EP).

PVCs are quite common even in healthy hearts. I have hundreds of thousands of them over a 3 month period. I have at home ICD/Pacemaker analysis every 3 months which shows PVCs as well as other electrical signals and any episodes, VT, AV.

I have no exercise restrictions other that I am 76 and told I need to realize that and stay at moderate level. This comes from my EP and Heart Failure specialist at Mayo Jacksonville.

I do Sprint Triathlons about 10 a year and train for them. I have a pulmonary/stress test every 2 years. I do take a medications to help reduce the PVCs. EP knows where they are coming from but my PVCs do not affect my ability to exercise and I am told to keep exercising.

PVCs can cause stress. Stress can cause PVCs. It is as you can see a cause and effect. That is why you need the guidance of cardiologist and EP to guide you what you can do or not do.

I would see a EP to get to source and treatments for your PVCs. Ablation, supplements, medications. All can help with your PVCs but get a specialist to advise you what is needed and any restrictions on exercise. We on MCC can say is only what applies to us not your condition and causes of your PVCs and what your medical care and/or exercising is for your specific case.
Good luck!

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Hi Birdie63.
As folks have stated here already, first consult with your EP. Once they give you the clear on exercise or otherwise, please follow their directions. I have suffered with PVCs and PACS for the past 20 years and I used to be serious runner until my knees finally started to deteriorate and I can no longer run; simply walking, biking, or elliptical.
As stated already here, PVCs and PACs can cause significant stress which in turn leads to more PVCs and PACs. They are scary, frustrating, and a nuisance. But once you get the clear from your cardio and EP docs, go enjoy your life.
I am taking 12.5 of Metropolol each night and it seems to help reduce the sensation or impact of my PVCs and PACs. It does make me extra tired in the evening and as my PVCs and PACs reduce, I may try and go off it. But my EP has told me that with my burden of PACs and PVCs, I am okay to exercise.
I wish you the best!
RR1967

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