Early Heart Contractions and High Cholesterol Risks

Q: Early Heart Contractions and High Cholesterol Risks

Hello： Regarding premature ventricular contractions (PVCs), they are a common type of arrhythmia that can occur even in healthy individuals, especially during times of physical stress (such as emotional stress, poor sleep, or illness). <br>They may be accompanied by symptoms like

Could you please provide information about premature heart contractions and hyperlipidemia?

Hello, Doctor: Two years ago, my heart suddenly had a pause followed by a beat.
I went to St.
Mary's Hospital, and the doctor said it was premature contractions.
I was prescribed Concor and Kady.
Initially, everything was fine after taking the medication, but recently, for the past month, I have been experiencing the pause followed by a beat again.
I consulted the doctor again, and after performing an electrocardiogram and an echocardiogram, he said everything was normal, and the medication was not changed.
However, I still experience this uncomfortable sensation frequently.
I would like to ask you, can premature contractions pose a life-threatening risk, such as a myocardial infarction? What further examinations should I undergo? (A few days ago, I reluctantly took a Xanax that my mother was taking, and I felt somewhat better).
Additionally, my blood lipids have been consistently high, with low-density lipoprotein cholesterol at 136 and triglycerides at 172.
Should I start taking medication to lower my blood lipids? I would greatly appreciate your guidance on these matters.

YOYO, 60~69 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/03/07

Dr. Huang Yinghe reply Cardiology

Hello: Regarding premature ventricular contractions (PVCs), they are a common type of arrhythmia that can occur even in healthy individuals, especially during times of physical stress (such as emotional stress, poor sleep, or illness).
They may be accompanied by symptoms like chest tightness or palpitations, but they can also occur without any symptoms.
Whether there will be serious long-term effects depends on the presence of any underlying heart disease.
Based on your description, if the electrocardiogram (ECG) and echocardiogram show no issues, it indicates that heart function is normal.
Generally, occasional PVCs may cause discomfort but are unlikely to lead to significant problems.
Maintaining a normal diet, adjusting your daily routine, and engaging in moderate exercise, along with managing psychological stress, should help alleviate symptoms.
If discomfort persists despite these recommendations, your physician may prescribe medications for arrhythmia or calming agents to help improve your condition.

Elevated blood cholesterol is a major contributor to atherosclerosis.
Large-scale clinical studies internationally have confirmed that lowering low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol can reduce the mortality rate from cardiovascular diseases.
Current recommendations for lipid treatment depend on cardiovascular risk; the higher the risk, the more aggressive the treatment should be.
For example, patients with a history of myocardial infarction are advised to lower LDL to below 70 mg/dL.
Even in the absence of heart disease, individuals with risk factors such as hypertension or diabetes may also consider medication.
Depending on individual circumstances, Taiwan's National Health Insurance has clear medication guidelines, and you should discuss with your physician whether medication is necessary.

It is common for patients to believe that cholesterol-lowering medications have many side effects, leading them to stop taking them, which can result in elevated cholesterol levels and even recurrent cardiovascular issues.
In fact, cholesterol-lowering medications are quite safe, and if there is a need for medication, it is advisable to continue taking them to maintain lower cholesterol levels and achieve treatment goals.
Wishing you good health, Chiayi Hospital, Dr.
Huang Ying-He.

Reply Date: 2019/03/07

More Info

Understanding early heart contractions, commonly referred to as premature ventricular contractions (PVCs), and their relationship with high cholesterol levels is crucial for maintaining cardiovascular health. Your experience with these irregular heartbeats, or "skipped beats," can be concerning, especially when accompanied by high cholesterol levels.

Early Heart Contractions (PVCs)
PVCs are extra heartbeats that originate in the ventricles and disrupt the regular heart rhythm. They are quite common and often benign, especially in individuals without underlying heart disease. Many people experience PVCs without any serious health implications. However, if they occur frequently or are associated with symptoms such as dizziness, chest pain, or shortness of breath, further evaluation is warranted.

In your case, since you have undergone an electrocardiogram (ECG) and echocardiogram that returned normal results, it suggests that your heart's structure and function are intact. The medications you mentioned, such as Kankin (likely a beta-blocker) and Kady (possibly another antiarrhythmic), are typically prescribed to manage PVCs and can help reduce their frequency. If you continue to experience discomfort from these contractions, it may be beneficial to discuss with your healthcare provider the possibility of adjusting your medication or exploring other treatment options.

Risks of PVCs
Regarding your concern about PVCs leading to serious conditions like myocardial infarction (heart attack), it is important to note that isolated PVCs in a structurally normal heart are generally not associated with an increased risk of heart attack. However, if PVCs are frequent or occur in the context of other heart conditions, they may warrant closer monitoring. It's essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider about your symptoms and any changes you experience.

Cholesterol Management
Your lipid profile indicates elevated levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and triglycerides. High levels of LDL cholesterol are a significant risk factor for coronary artery disease (CAD), which can lead to heart attacks. The American Heart Association recommends lifestyle modifications as the first line of defense against high cholesterol, including:
1. Dietary Changes: Adopt a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Reducing saturated fats and eliminating trans fats can help lower LDL levels.

2. Regular Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity can improve your lipid profile and overall cardiovascular health. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week.

3. Weight Management: If you are overweight, losing even a small percentage of your body weight can positively impact your cholesterol levels.

4. Avoiding Tobacco and Limiting Alcohol: Smoking cessation and moderating alcohol intake can also improve heart health.

Given your elevated cholesterol levels, it may be appropriate to consider medication, especially if lifestyle changes alone do not yield sufficient improvements. Statins are commonly prescribed to lower LDL cholesterol and reduce the risk of cardiovascular events. Your healthcare provider can help determine the best course of action based on your overall health, cholesterol levels, and risk factors.

Conclusion
In summary, while PVCs can be uncomfortable, they are often benign, especially in the absence of structural heart disease. However, persistent symptoms should be evaluated further. Regarding your cholesterol levels, lifestyle modifications are essential, and medication may be necessary to manage your risk effectively. Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider will ensure that both your heart rhythm and cholesterol levels are monitored and managed appropriately. Always feel free to discuss any concerns or changes in your symptoms with your doctor, as they can provide personalized advice based on your specific health needs.

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