Heart skipping a beat
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Understanding the Phenomenon of Heart Skipping a Beat
Introduction to Heart Skipping a Beat
The sensation of the heart skipping a beat, medically known as palpitations, is a common experience that can be caused by various factors. This article synthesizes research findings to provide a comprehensive understanding of this phenomenon, its causes, and potential implications.
Causes of Heart Skipping a Beat
Premature Ventricular Contractions (PVCs)
One common cause of the sensation of a skipped heartbeat is premature ventricular contractions (PVCs). These are extra heartbeats that originate in the ventricles and disrupt the regular heart rhythm. A case study of a 69-year-old woman with recurrent palpitations at rest highlighted PVCs as a potential cause, particularly when they originate from the slow pathway region near the heart's conduction system.
Atrial Fibrillation and Digital Health Monitoring
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is another condition that can cause irregular heartbeats. A 45-year-old woman experienced skipped heartbeats, which were later identified as AF through digital health monitoring using a smartwatch. This case underscores the importance of accurate diagnosis and the role of digital health devices in monitoring cardiac rhythms.
Fetal Heart Rhythm Irregularities
In fetuses, irregular heart rhythms, often perceived as skipped beats, are usually due to premature atrial contractions (PACs). These are generally benign and self-limiting but can occasionally be associated with more serious conditions like congenital heart disease (CHD) or tachyarrhythmia. Regular monitoring and advanced ultrasound assessments are recommended to exclude CHD and manage any potential complications.
Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome
Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome is a condition that can cause episodes of rapid heart rate and skipped beats. A case involving a 13-year-old athlete revealed that WPW syndrome could present with symptoms such as skipped heartbeats, shortness of breath, and dizziness, particularly during physical exertion.
Traditional and Modern Approaches to Treatment
Iranian Traditional Medicine
In Iranian Traditional Medicine (ITM), the sensation of a skipped heartbeat, known as "Khafaghan," is treated with various remedies, including therapeutic diets, cupping therapy, and herbal medicines. Some effective single remedies identified include Melissa officinalis and Citrus medica, which are candidates for further research in modern medicine.
Intracardiac Electrophysiologic Studies
For patients with unexplained palpitations, intracardiac electrophysiologic studies can be crucial in identifying the underlying cause. These studies help differentiate between benign arrhythmias and those that may require specific therapy, ensuring appropriate treatment and management.
Advances in Cardiotoxicity Testing
Drug-Induced Arrhythmogenic Risk
A novel screening system combining in vitro pharmacological assays and a multiscale heart simulator has been developed to predict drug-induced arrhythmogenic risk. This system can simulate the effects of various drugs on heart rhythm, helping to identify potential arrhythmias and ensuring safer drug development.
Conclusion
The sensation of the heart skipping a beat can arise from various conditions, ranging from benign PACs to more serious arrhythmias like AF and WPW syndrome. Accurate diagnosis and appropriate management are essential, with modern digital health tools and traditional remedies both playing valuable roles. Advances in cardiotoxicity testing further enhance our ability to predict and prevent drug-induced arrhythmias, contributing to overall cardiac health.
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