An unusual extra beat of the heart which originates from a point other than the sinoatrial node.
An abnormal heart rhythm, in which the heart contracts sooner than usual. It is the most common form of abnormal heart rhythm and the least serious. An ectopic heartbeat is also known as extrasystole. Ectopic heartbeats can give people the sensation that the heart skipped a beat. Occasional ectopic heartbeats are harmless and require no treatment other than to address the cause. Common causes include stress, lack of sleep, and using caffeine, alcohol, or tobacco. In some people, persistent ectopic heartbeat can produce spells of lightheadedness, chest discomfort, or shortness of breath. If symptoms are troublesome or persistent, a medication that controls heart rhythm, such as a beta blocker, is typically prescribed.
An ectopic heartbeat is an abnormal contraction of the heart muscle that deviates from the regular timing. It happens shortly after a normal beat and is followed by a longer-than-usual interval before the next one.
Ectopic beats can manifest in a healthy heart and might not show any symptoms. However, when multiple ectopic beats occur, they can cause palpitations, which is the sensation of a rapid or forceful heartbeat. In the context of a heart attack (myocardial infarction), such multiple beats serve as an indication of damaged heart muscle. In severe cases, they could lead to a condition known as ventricular fibrillation, characterized by a rapid, uncoordinated, and potentially life-threatening heartbeat.
When multiple ectopic beats result in palpitations or occur after a myocardial infarction, they are frequently managed with the use of antiarrhythmic medication.