Early Contractions: Are They Linked to Breathing Difficulties?

Premature contractions

Hello doctor, last year I had an episode of missed heartbeats, and after a check-up, it was found that I had over 50 missed beats in a day.
The doctor said it was within the normal range, so I didn't pay much attention to it.
However, since the end of last year, I have experienced three episodes where I suddenly felt short of breath while sleeping, as if my airways were suddenly constricted.
I had to take deep breaths to get a weak amount of air.
I was still partially asleep during these episodes, but I felt they lasted about 30 to 40 seconds before easing.
I would like to ask if this could be related to my previous missed beats or if it could be connected to my mitral valve prolapse.
Additionally, could the finding of over 50 missed beats a day last year potentially indicate that my condition could worsen this year?

Jie, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/05/09

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology

Hello, experiencing more than 50 premature beats a day can be within the normal range and may be related to early contractions or mitral valve prolapse.
It's difficult to determine if there is a connection with shortness of breath during sleep; in most cases, there is no correlation.
If it has worsened from over 50 beats last year to more severe this year, it's hard to say definitively.
Generally, it is not concerning.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.

Reply Date: 2019/05/09

More Info

Understanding early contractions and their potential link to breathing difficulties can be complex, especially when considering individual health histories and symptoms. In your case, the experience of feeling sudden breathing difficulties while asleep, described as a sensation of the airway being obstructed, raises several important considerations.

Firstly, early contractions, or premature ventricular contractions (PVCs), are common and often benign. They can occur in healthy individuals without any underlying heart disease. The fact that you were told your PVCs were within a normal range suggests that they are not currently a cause for concern. However, the perception of breathing difficulties during sleep could be related to several factors, including sleep apnea, anxiety, or even the effects of PVCs on your overall cardiovascular stability.

Sleep apnea is a condition characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep, which can lead to significant drops in oxygen levels and cause the sensation of breathlessness. This could explain the episodes you described, where you feel as if your airway is suddenly obstructed. The fact that these episodes occur while you are still partially asleep suggests that they may be related to sleep-disordered breathing rather than directly to your PVCs.

Additionally, you mentioned having mitral valve prolapse (MVP), which is a condition where the valve between the heart's left atrium and left ventricle does not close properly. While MVP is often benign, it can sometimes be associated with palpitations and anxiety, which could exacerbate feelings of breathlessness. The relationship between MVP and breathing difficulties is not straightforward, but it is worth discussing with your healthcare provider, especially if you have experienced changes in your symptoms.

Regarding your concern about the frequency of PVCs increasing over time, it is essential to understand that while PVCs can fluctuate, they do not typically worsen in a way that leads to more severe health issues. However, if you notice an increase in frequency or associated symptoms such as dizziness, chest pain, or worsening breathlessness, it is crucial to seek medical evaluation. Regular follow-ups with a cardiologist can help monitor your heart's health and address any concerns you may have.

In summary, while early contractions may not directly cause your breathing difficulties, they could be part of a broader picture involving sleep apnea or anxiety. It is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional who can conduct a thorough evaluation, possibly including a sleep study, to determine the underlying causes of your symptoms. This approach will help ensure that any potential issues are identified and managed appropriately, allowing you to achieve better overall health and peace of mind.

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