Premature beats (PACs & PVCs)

SECTION 5

Living with PACs and PVCs

Most people with occasional premature beats and an otherwise healthy heart can continue their usual activities. The goal is to understand your rhythm, manage bothersome symptoms, and monitor your heart when needed.

Healthy habits that may help

• Get adequate sleep.
• Stay appropriately hydrated, following any fluid restrictions your care team has given you.
• Reduce excessive caffeine and alcohol, especially if you notice a connection with symptoms.
• Avoid tobacco and recreational stimulants.
• Discuss medications, supplements, and decongestants with your clinician.
• Find manageable ways to reduce stress.

Not everyone has a clear trigger. Premature beats can occur even when you follow healthy habits.

Can I exercise?

Regular physical activity is generally encouraged when your heart evaluation is reassuring. Ask your clinician whether any restrictions apply to you.

Tell your care team if exercise brings on new or worsening palpitations. Stop exercising and seek medical attention if you develop chest discomfort, significant shortness of breath, or dizziness.

Track symptoms without counting every beat

A brief symptom log can help. Record when symptoms occur, how long they last, what you were doing, and any associated symptoms.

If your watch captures an EKG during an episode, save it to share with your clinician. You do not need to check your pulse continuously or count every early beat.

Follow your treatment plan

Take medications as prescribed and report side effects. Discuss any changes with your care team before adjusting or stopping treatment.

If you have frequent PVCs, your clinician may recommend repeat monitoring or an echocardiogram—even if you feel well—to check the number of early beats and your heart’s pumping function.

The takeaway: Occasional premature beats are common. Your symptoms, rhythm recordings, and heart function help determine how much follow-up you need.