PVCs

[prattfamily]

I just found this site as my husband is sitting in a hospital in Tennesse and I am in Indiana (he is a truck driver). In 2005 my husband was 34 years old and suffered a heart attack, his heart stopped and they had to shock him back to life. Ever since then he has been very intuned with his body and feels every little thing that happens to him. I always tell him that it's in his head because he is overly cautious of having another heart attack (I don't blame him, I would be too if I died at 34 years old). For the past 2 days his heart flutters (as he called them) have became much worse and were happening every 5 beats or so. He tells me, every time it happens it takes his breath away and I continued to brush it off. Now that I actually know that they are real and they happen to a lot of people, I feel really bad that I have not supported him and how he was feeling. I am really glad I found this site, it has opened my eyes to be more empathetic towards what he is feeling. After being to doctors and cardiologists no one has diagnosed him with PVCs until today and I am finally relieved to know that there is a diagnosis for this.

[RNRita]

I agree with BionicBabe.  If he had a cardiac arrest, there was a reason.  He really should have a thorough work up!!!!

[BionicBabe]

Did your husband have a heart attack or cardiac arrest? They are not the same thing. It sounds like you're describing cardiac arrest. A heart attack can lead to cardiac arrest, but a person can also have cardiac arrest without having a heart attack. If your husband had cardiac arrest and is experiencing arrhythmia he or you may want to inquire about getting an ICD. Good luck!

[kbaker11]

I just wanted to say that I am new to PVCs too.  I found out last year I have them, which was scary, but also made me feel I understand myself more.  I would always feel it, but thought I was imagining it in my head.  Sometimes it woke me from sleep and I wondered if I would make it through the night.  It made me understand why I suddenly feel tired or light headed, etc.  To me it truly helps to have my boyfriend there for me - even if they are benign, they're scary!!  He really comforts me when they get bad and I think it's great you've reached out in this forum for your husband.  So, I like your husband, am on a hunt for what triggers these besides caffeine, nicotine and alcohol... oh and stress - but how are we supposed to be less stressed when dealing with PVCs is stressful!? :)

[marie983]

First of all let me say how sorry I am to hear that her husband has had a heart attack.  I will keep you and your family in my prayers.  Your husband has a long road ahead.  I am 25 and have had PVCs when I was 12, but to was not diagnosed until two weeks after my 23th birthday.  There are thing that trigger PVCs.  For example to much caffinee, alcohol, or drugs.  Other triggers are stress, and here is another one that I have heard is eating a big meal.  There are people who get them at night before bed.  If this happens there is a over the counter herbal drink that he can drink before bed.  It is a great drink which I drink from time to time.  The only thing I have notice with the drink is I wake up feeling like I have not eaten in days.  I know it sounds crazy for it is true.  Your husband is going to need your support now more then ever.  I have had this for so long now that I dont want it any more and I dont want to take care of my self.  I dont have a great relatioship with my family and it took me two years to tell them I had PVCs.  He is going to have to find out what triggers his.  And the only other thing I can say is the best of luck to you and your husband.
Marie983