Hi Minerva - Thanks for your question, it's a good one. According to the Mayo Clinic, most people with PVC's and an otherwise normal heart won't need treatment. Making lifestyle changes, such as eliminating common contraction triggers such as caffeine or tobacco can decrease the severity and frequency of symptoms.
Mayo also offers several self-care strategies:
* Track your triggers. If you have frequent symptoms, you might want to take note of your symptoms and your activities. This can help identify substances or actions that may trigger premature ventricular contractions.
* Modify your substance use. Caffeine, alcohol, tobacco and other recreational drugs are known triggers of premature ventricular contractions. Reducing or avoiding these substances can reduce your symptoms.
* Manage stress. Anxiety can trigger abnormal heartbeats. If you think anxiety may be contributing to your condition, try stress-reduction techniques, such as biofeedback, meditation or exercise, or talk to your doctor about anti-anxiety medications.
There are several so-called "natural" alternatives available online, however, there are also warnings that patients need to be extremely cautious about these products. I would definitely look for specific clinical data about any such product under consideration.
People who have frequent, bothersome symptoms may be offered treatment to help them feel better. For those with underlying heart conditions, however, medication becomes more critical. You can learn more here: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/premature-ventricular-contractions/DS00949/DSECTION=treatments-and-drugs
Are you being treated for cardiac issues beyond PVC's or do you have a history of cardiac disease in your family?
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Hi Minerva - Thanks for your question, it's a good one. According to the Mayo Clinic, most people with PVC's and an otherwise normal heart won't need treatment. Making lifestyle changes, such as eliminating common contraction triggers such as caffeine or tobacco can decrease the severity and frequency of symptoms.
Mayo also offers several self-care strategies:
* Track your triggers. If you have frequent symptoms, you might want to take note of your symptoms and your activities. This can help identify substances or actions that may trigger premature ventricular contractions.
* Modify your substance use. Caffeine, alcohol, tobacco and other recreational drugs are known triggers of premature ventricular contractions. Reducing or avoiding these substances can reduce your symptoms.
* Manage stress. Anxiety can trigger abnormal heartbeats. If you think anxiety may be contributing to your condition, try stress-reduction techniques, such as biofeedback, meditation or exercise, or talk to your doctor about anti-anxiety medications.
There are several so-called "natural" alternatives available online, however, there are also warnings that patients need to be extremely cautious about these products. I would definitely look for specific clinical data about any such product under consideration.
People who have frequent, bothersome symptoms may be offered treatment to help them feel better. For those with underlying heart conditions, however, medication becomes more critical. You can learn more here: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/premature-ventricular-contractions/DS00949/DSECTION=treatments-and-drugs
Are you being treated for cardiac issues beyond PVC's or do you have a history of cardiac disease in your family?
I hope this helps!
September 13, 2010 - 6:11pmPat
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