Do you have frequent skipped beats?

Our hearts perform a graceful dance, skipping a beat in the presence of loved ones or in moments of excitement and nervousness.

But what if those skipped beats become a frequent occurrence? When does concern step in?

Nestled within us, our heart possesses an intricate electrical system that orchestrates its rhythm with remarkable efficiency. Amidst this, smaller circuits sometimes get a tad overexcited – often due to adrenaline surges, but occasionally sparked by scar tissue, oxygen shortages, or electrolyte imbalances.

This is what gives rise to the sensation of skipped beats. When the impulse springs from the upper chamber, it earns the title "premature atrial contraction" or PACs. When the lower chamber is involved, it's dubbed "premature ventricular contraction" or PVCs.

Beyond skipped beats, other rapid heartbeat patterns may emerge, evoking a sense of a "racing heart." These include supraventricular tachycardia, atrial fibrillation, and ventricular tachycardia – subjects we'll explore elsewhere.

Amidst these rhythm variations, what other sensations might accompany skipped beats? Some liken it to their heart flip-flopping or pounding intensely. For others, there's a fleeting pause, perhaps urging a cough.

Often, these sensations are benign, making fleeting appearances. Simple lifestyle shifts can work wonders, like prioritizing restful sleep, staying hydrated, moderating caffeine and alcohol, and mastering stress.

Yet, there are times when these symptoms linger and disrupt. When lifestyle tweaks fall short, it's a cue for treatment. This realm spans medications to the occasional ablation procedure in rare instances.

When should concern arise? If dizziness or fainting dance into the picture, if chest discomfort or breathlessness make an entrance, or if underlying heart conditions loom over. Also, if symptoms stretch across hours each day, it's a signal to heed.