Overview

A premature heartbeat happens when the heart beats earlier than it should. This briefly interrupts the heart's rhythm. You do not usually feel the early heartbeat, and the next beat is stronger. To many people, this feels like a skipped heartbeat or a flutter. This heartbeat is also called a premature ventricular contraction (PVC).

If you have no heart problems, premature heartbeats that happen once in a while are not a cause for concern. Most people have them at some time. They may happen more often if you use caffeine or alcohol or are under stress.

You may have tests to check for a cause of the premature heartbeats. Most people do not need treatment. But some people may take medicine or have a procedure called ablation to prevent these heartbeats and to relieve symptoms.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Limit caffeine and other stimulants if they trigger premature heartbeats.
• Try to manage stress.
• Do not smoke or allow others to smoke around you. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor about stop-smoking programs and medicines. These can increase your chances of quitting for good.
• Get at least 2½ hours of exercise a week. Walking is a good choice. You also may want to do other activities, such as running, swimming, cycling, or playing tennis or team sports.
• Eat heart-healthy foods.
• Stay at a healthy weight. Lose weight if you need to.
• If you drink alcohol, try to drink less. Your risk of harm from alcohol is low if you have 2 drinks or less per week. Work with your doctor to find what is right for you. If drinking alcohol causes more premature heartbeats, do not drink it.
• If your doctor prescribes medicine, take it exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor or nurse advice line if you think you are having a problem with your medicine.