Runs of Extrasystoles

Question

Hi, I'm 34 and have been having extrasystoles for over 10 years now. Had all the tests which showed extrasystoles (PVCs and PACs) and was told all normal, and nothing to worry about. Just recently though I have been having really bad runs of extrasystoles (couldn't tell you if PVCs or PACs or a mixture) which feel like my heart is just juggling / jiggling / thumping out of time for more than 10 beats in a row. I nearly passed out last night but then my heart just returned to normal. I could cope with the odd ones, but now these runs are terrifying me and I don't know whether I'm about to drop dead or if this is just another "normal" thing. Waiting to see GP (although concerned they'll just tell me not to worry) but any advice / reassurance in the meantime would be gratefully received as I'm struggling to cope.
Thanks

This discussion is related to Episodes of disabling aberrant heartbeat.

jkfrench · Answer

I had that problem back in February.  I really thought I was having thousands and it ended up that I had 288 in 24 hours.  They came in spurts and wouldn't let up for 10 or 15 mintues at a time.  This was also different than what I usually experience with pvc's, but my doctor said nothing to worry about.  I am almost positive that this is hormonal for me.  Take care and try not to worry so they settle down faster.
Frenchie

tracywifey · Answer

Yes I have seen 2 cardiologists over the years, had numerous ECGs (all fine as infrequent probs), ultrasound (fine), 24hr monitor (fine) and what they called a "loop" which I had on a month to catch the palps, which showed the PVCs and PACs and was told they were normal.
It is over the last month I have been having these runs or "salvos" which are terrifying and don't know how worried I should be.  Everything I read seems to make me think I'm going to die the next time I get one if the run keeps going.

Mom2four85 · Answer

Have you had a workup with a cardiologist or EP? If you haven't that may yield some answers & relief.  If you have had them, get your test results to see if that has anything you may not know about.  Sometimes just getting your results and seeing what it says can help.