Consulting Heart Health: Palpitations and Echo Tests

Cardiac-related issue consultation?

Dear Dr.
He,
I have recently experienced occasional heart palpitations, specifically "premature beats" (feeling like my heart skips a beat), but I do not have significant discomfort.
I had a cardiac echocardiogram (color Doppler) in January of last year, and the results indicated that both the structure and function of my heart were normal, with only mild regurgitation of the mitral and tricuspid valves, which was about a year and a half ago.
I would like to ask Dr.
He the following questions:
1.
Given that my cardiac echocardiogram from a year and a half ago was normal, do I need to undergo another echocardiogram due to the occasional occurrence of "premature beats"?
2.
Generally speaking, how often should a cardiac echocardiogram be performed?
3.
If the phenomenon of "premature beats" is not caused by an underlying heart issue but rather by external factors, after excluding these external factors (such as lack of sleep or autonomic nervous system imbalance), will the "premature beats" naturally resolve?
Thank you, Dr.
He.

Axiang, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/06/27

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology

Hello, premature heartbeats (premature contractions) are not necessarily related to the structure or function of the heart, and it is generally not required to perform an echocardiogram solely due to premature beats if there are no abnormalities.
There is no specific interval for repeat echocardiograms.
Premature beats do not naturally disappear; however, reducing external stimuli may decrease their occurrence, while increased stimuli may lead to an increase in premature beats.
This is related to changes in both internal and external environments.
Changhua Hospital cares about your well-being.

Reply Date: 2021/06/27

More Info

Hello! Thank you for your questions regarding heart health, particularly concerning palpitations and the need for echocardiograms. Let's break down your inquiries one by one.

1. Do you need another echocardiogram due to occasional palpitations?
Given that your previous echocardiogram showed normal heart structure and function, and considering that you only experience occasional palpitations (premature beats), it may not be necessary to undergo another echocardiogram immediately. However, if these palpitations become more frequent, are associated with other symptoms (like chest pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness), or if you have any new risk factors (such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or a family history of heart disease), it would be prudent to consult your healthcare provider. They may recommend further evaluation, which could include an echocardiogram or other tests like a Holter monitor to assess your heart rhythm over a longer period.

2. How often should echocardiograms be performed?
The frequency of echocardiograms largely depends on individual risk factors and existing heart conditions. For someone with a normal echocardiogram and no significant symptoms or risk factors, a repeat echocardiogram might not be necessary for several years. However, if you have conditions that could affect heart function or structure, your doctor may recommend more frequent monitoring. Generally, for healthy individuals without symptoms, a routine echocardiogram every 3-5 years may be sufficient, but this should always be tailored to your specific health needs and discussed with your healthcare provider.

3. Can premature beats resolve on their own if external factors are eliminated?
Yes, premature beats (or ectopic beats) can often be influenced by external factors such as stress, caffeine intake, lack of sleep, or anxiety. If these external factors are addressed—such as improving sleep hygiene, managing stress, and reducing caffeine consumption—it's possible that the frequency of these palpitations may decrease or resolve entirely. However, it's important to note that some individuals may continue to experience these beats even after making lifestyle changes. If the palpitations persist or worsen, it would be wise to seek medical advice to rule out any underlying cardiac issues.

In summary, while your previous echocardiogram results are reassuring, it's essential to remain vigilant about any changes in your symptoms. If you experience new or worsening symptoms, or if your palpitations become more frequent, don't hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for further evaluation. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your health history and current condition.

Lastly, maintaining a healthy lifestyle—regular exercise, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and stress management—can significantly contribute to overall heart health and may help reduce the occurrence of palpitations. Always keep an open line of communication with your healthcare provider regarding any concerns about your heart health. Thank you for your questions, and I wish you all the best in your health journey!

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