Episode #18: In this conversation, Dr. Matt DeVane and Dr. Carolyn Lacey discuss the common issue of heart palpitations, specifically focusing on premature ventricular complexes (PVCs). They explore what PVCs are, their significance, and how patients can identify triggers and symptoms.

The doctors emphasize the importance of lifestyle changes and self-monitoring, as well as the role of modern technology in tracking heart health. The conversation aims to reassure listeners about the normalcy of PVCs while providing practical advice for managing heart health. In this conversation,

They cover the importance of patient history, family background, and various heart testing methods, including EKGs and echocardiograms. The doctors emphasize the significance of reassurance for patients experiencing PVCs, outlining management strategies that include lifestyle changes, medications, and advanced treatments like catheter ablation. They also touch on the concept of interoceptive awareness, explaining how individuals perceive their bodily sensations differently. The conversation concludes with a call for patients to seek medical advice if they experience concerning symptoms

Takeaways

People often feel scared or annoyed by heart palpitations.

PVCs, or premature ventricular complexes, are common and often harmless.

Monitoring devices have increased awareness of heart irregularities.

Patients should identify triggers like stress, caffeine, and sleep.

Lifestyle changes can help manage PVCs effectively.

Patients can prepare for appointments by tracking their symptoms.

The heart has multiple pacemakers that can cause PVCs.

Understanding PVCs can alleviate anxiety about heart health. Family history is crucial in evaluating heart health.

EKGs and echocardiograms are standard tests for PVCs.

Lifestyle changes can significantly impact heart health.

Medications like beta blockers are commonly used for PVCs.

Catheter ablation is an effective treatment for high PVC burden.

Stress testing may be necessary for certain patients.

Basic blood work is essential in the evaluation process.

Interoceptive awareness affects how patients perceive their symptoms.

Patients should consult their doctors for any concerning symptoms.

Sound Bites

"The heart is very good at protecting itself."

"You can be your own little detective too."

"Most people may not feel anything at all."

"Cutting out those triggers is good for you."

"70% of young people have PVCs."

"Family history can really be very important."

"How many PVCs are you having?"

"Reassurance is very important."

"You want to make sure you're hydrating well."

Medical Disclaimer

The Living Heart Smart podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user’s own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions.