Heart Palpitations: Questions on Missed Beats and More

(Continuation of inquiry) #175768 Heartbeat inquiry consultation

Dear Dr.
He,
Thank you for your explanation; I have gained a new understanding of skipped heartbeats.
I still have some questions regarding your response in the article titled “#175768 Heartbeat Inquiry Consultation” that I would like to ask:
1.
You mentioned, "The heartbeat may indeed have 'skips.'" Does this mean that even if the heart rate fluctuates between fast and slow, there won't be a situation where it 'pauses'? Therefore, the 'pause' I feel is equivalent to the meaning of 'skipped heartbeat'?
2.
You stated, "Unless the number is above a certain threshold." Could you clarify how many skipped beats would be considered abnormal or indicative of a disease?
3.
You mentioned, "Everyone has skipped beats, just varying in quantity." I recall my previous question about "premature ventricular contractions" (PVCs) and "skipped heartbeats" seeming quite similar.
Are "premature ventricular contractions" and "skipped heartbeats" referring to the same phenomenon? If not, what are the differences, and how can they be distinguished?
4.
Lastly, could you explain what factors contribute to skipped heartbeats in the general population?
Thank you, Dr.
He.

Axiang, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/11/16

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology

Hello, in my understanding, the sensation of a pause is indicative of a skipped heartbeat.
Premature contractions and skipped beats are essentially the same.
Premature contractions are similar to occasionally stumbling while walking; they are generally considered normal.
Abnormalities are often caused by an additional pacemaker site in the heart, leading to abnormal electrical discharges in a specific area.
If the frequency exceeds a certain threshold—approximately 1% of daily heartbeats, which typically exceeds 100,000 beats a day—then it may be considered abnormal if it exceeds 1,000 occurrences.
Take care from Changhua Hospital.

Reply Date: 2021/11/16

More Info

Heart palpitations can be a concerning symptom for many individuals, often leading to anxiety and further health-related worries. Understanding the nuances of heart palpitations, including missed beats, is essential for managing these symptoms effectively. Let’s address your questions one by one.

1. Understanding "Missed Beats": When you mention feeling a "pause" or "stop" in your heartbeat, it is often referred to as a "missed beat" or "palpitation." This sensation can occur when the heart skips a beat or has an irregular rhythm. In many cases, this is due to premature contractions, which can be either atrial or ventricular in nature. These contractions can create a feeling of a pause, as the heart may beat more forcefully after the skipped beat, leading to the sensation of a "thump" or "flutter." So yes, your understanding aligns with the common experience of palpitations.

2. Frequency of Missed Beats: The threshold for what constitutes an abnormal number of missed beats can vary from person to person. Generally, if you experience more than a few missed beats per minute consistently, or if the sensation is accompanied by other symptoms such as dizziness, shortness of breath, or chest pain, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation. While occasional missed beats are common and often benign, persistent or frequent occurrences warrant further investigation.

3. Difference Between "Early Beats" and "Missed Beats": "Heart palpitations" can encompass a variety of sensations, including "early beats" (premature contractions) and "missed beats." Premature beats occur when the heart contracts earlier than expected, which can lead to a feeling of a skipped beat afterward. While both terms can describe similar sensations, they are not identical. Early beats are a specific type of arrhythmia, while missed beats can refer to the sensation of irregular heartbeats more broadly. It's important to differentiate between these to understand the underlying cause and appropriate management.

4. Causes of Missed Beats: There are several factors that can contribute to the occurrence of missed beats. Common causes include:
- Stress and Anxiety: Emotional stress can lead to increased adrenaline levels, which may trigger premature contractions.

- Caffeine and Stimulants: High intake of caffeine, nicotine, or other stimulants can increase heart rate and lead to palpitations.

- Electrolyte Imbalances: Low levels of potassium, magnesium, or calcium can affect heart rhythm.

- Medications: Certain medications, particularly those affecting the heart or central nervous system, can cause palpitations.

- Underlying Health Conditions: Conditions such as hyperthyroidism, anemia, or heart disease can also contribute to irregular heart rhythms.

In conclusion, while occasional heart palpitations are often benign, it is crucial to monitor their frequency and associated symptoms. If you find that your palpitations are frequent, accompanied by other concerning symptoms, or significantly impacting your quality of life, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. They may recommend diagnostic tests such as an electrocardiogram (ECG) or Holter monitor to assess your heart's rhythm more closely. Understanding your body and its signals is key to managing your health effectively.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Heart Palpitations: Anxiety's Role and Health Risks

I apologize for asking you another question, Director. Could the increase in missed beats I've experienced over the past few days be influenced by anxiety? If I make some adjustments, could it gradually return to how it was before? For instance, in the last couple of days, I...

Dr. Huang Yinghe reply Cardiology
Hello: The examination results are all normal, and the symptoms are likely influenced by psychological factors. However, without a personal examination, I cannot provide you with a definitive diagnosis or recommendations. It is advisable to follow up with your physician for furth...

Understanding Heart Palpitations: Causes, Risks, and Expert Insights

Hello, Doctor. I apologize for bothering you. I would like to ask you about my recent symptoms. The missed beats have improved a lot; I wore a 24-hour Holter monitor and recorded only 2 APCs and 1 VPC in a day. However, over the past two nights, I've noticed an increase in m...

Dr. Huang Yinghe reply Cardiology
Hello: The primary issues are sinus arrhythmia and sinus tachycardia, both of which are normal responses and not concerning. Anxiety and panic are common causes of discomfort. Please maintain a positive mood and manage stress, or consider seeking assistance from a mental health p...

Understanding Heart Palpitations and Blood Pressure Concerns: Expert Insights

Thank you, doctor, for your professionalism, which reassures me a bit. How do you determine that it is simply tachycardia? Additionally, I would like to ask, sometimes when measuring blood pressure, I experience palpitations or missed beats. For instance, my blood pressure was su...

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology
Hello, a blood pressure reading of 67/49 is likely an issue with the machine and may not be accurate, especially since the readings before and after are similar. In most cases, sudden abnormal blood pressure readings are not serious and are often due to equipment malfunction rath...

Understanding Palpitations: Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions

From time to time, I experience episodes of rapid heartbeat and missed beats (with the next beat feeling particularly strong). This issue has been occurring intermittently since I changed jobs a year and a half ago. It tends to improve for a while (lasting about half a month to o...

Dr. Chen Jili reply Cardiology
It is recommended that you visit a cardiology outpatient clinic to determine if any relevant examinations are necessary. Thank you, and wishing you good health!