P-V-C

  I was told i have irregular heart rythems when i am sleeping or just sitting doing nothing.  And at times this can be very bothersome,for i can fell my heart starting and stoping.  But when i am active my heart beats are normally.
  I have been told this is a condition called  ( P-V-C )  I am not asking for a cure,but i am asking for an explanation of just what  PVC  is.  Because every Doctor i have asked,has done nothing but speak in Greek!!!!!!!
  Well i hope you can help me thank you

[CCF Cardio MD - MTR]

Dear David, thank you for your question.  PVCs are premature ventricular contractions
which are irregular electrical impulses of the ventricles of the heart.  PVCs
are usually a benign disorder caused by caffeine, tobacco, alcohol, and stress
so we recommended avoiding those precipitants.  Many people have PVCs which they
find quite bothersome but this condition doesn't indicate you have a serious cardiac
disorder.  Some people notice their PVCs more and seem to be anticipating PVCs
which makes them anxious and unable to carry out normal activities.  In elderly
patients with coronary artery disease, PVCs can be a warning of more concerning
rhythm disturbances.  Palpitations, or irregular heartbeats, result with PVCs
because the normal cardiac rhythm has to reset itself after a PVC so a pause
results.  Thallium stress tests can be done to exclude coronary disease and
are very safe, but are often unecessary in young patients.  Additionally, an
echocardiogram can be done to exclude structural heart defects if those are
suspected.  I suspect, in your case, that your PVCs are benign but you need
to have your physician thoroughly evaluate you to determine that.
Information provided in the heart forum is for general purposes only.  Specific
diagnoses and therapies can only be provided by your physician.