Ventricular Premature Contractions: Vaccine Concerns and Recommendations

Premature Ventricular Contractions and Concerns Regarding Vaccination

Hello Dr.
He, I previously asked about the relationship between 24-hour Holter monitoring and sleep after electrocautery.
During my follow-up visit, I reviewed the report which indicated around 6,000 ventricular premature contractions (VPCs) on that day, an improvement compared to the 16,000-20,000 VPCs prior to the procedure.
I was advised to continue taking one heart health supplement daily and to try not to be so anxious.
During the outpatient consultation, I inquired about receiving the COVID vaccine, and the doctor said it was permissible.
However, I forgot to ask about the differences between vaccine brands, so I would like to ask Dr.
He if there are specific vaccines that might be less recommended for my situation.
It seems that mRNA vaccines have more side effects related to cardiovascular issues (such as myocarditis); could this exacerbate my condition? Thank you for your guidance, Dr.
He!

Sam, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/10/05

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology

Hello, the brand actually doesn't have a significant impact.
The main issue currently is anxiety.
Vaccination is still necessary as it provides better protection.
It's advisable to take medication for anxiety before the vaccination to feel more at ease.
Changhua Hospital cares about your well-being.

Reply Date: 2021/10/05

More Info

When it comes to receiving a COVID-19 vaccine, particularly for individuals with a history of ventricular premature contractions (VPCs), it's essential to consider both the benefits and potential risks associated with vaccination. Based on the information you provided, it appears that your healthcare provider has assessed your condition and deemed it safe for you to receive the vaccine. However, your concerns about the specific types of vaccines and their potential cardiovascular side effects are valid and warrant further discussion.

Ventricular premature contractions are common and can occur in individuals with or without underlying heart disease. They are often benign, especially if they occur infrequently and are not associated with significant symptoms. In your case, the reduction in the frequency of VPCs from 16,000-20,000 to around 6,000 is a positive sign, indicating an improvement in your condition. This improvement, along with your doctor's reassurance, suggests that your heart is currently stable.

Regarding the COVID-19 vaccines, particularly the mRNA vaccines like Pfizer-BioNTech (BNT) and Moderna, there have been reports of myocarditis and pericarditis, particularly in younger males after the second dose. However, these events are rare and the overall benefits of vaccination in preventing severe COVID-19 illness, hospitalization, and death outweigh the risks for most individuals. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other health organizations continue to recommend vaccination for eligible individuals, including those with a history of VPCs, as long as they are under the care of a healthcare provider.

In your specific case, while mRNA vaccines have been associated with some cardiovascular side effects, the risk of these complications is still considered low. Your healthcare provider may suggest monitoring your heart rhythm after vaccination, especially if you have concerns about exacerbating your VPCs. It is also important to maintain open communication with your healthcare team, as they can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current health status.

If you are particularly anxious about the mRNA vaccines, you might consider discussing the option of receiving a viral vector vaccine, such as Johnson & Johnson's Janssen vaccine, which has a different mechanism of action. However, it's important to note that all vaccines authorized for emergency use have undergone rigorous testing for safety and efficacy.

In conclusion, while there are some concerns regarding the cardiovascular side effects of mRNA vaccines, the overall consensus in the medical community is that the benefits of vaccination far outweigh the risks, especially for individuals at risk for severe COVID-19. It is crucial to follow your healthcare provider's recommendations and to address any ongoing concerns with them. They can help you weigh the risks and benefits in the context of your specific health situation, ensuring that you make an informed decision about vaccination. Remember, staying vaccinated is a key step in protecting not only your health but also the health of those around you.

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