Afib, PACs, PVCs, any arrhythmia does take its toll on me, to be sure. But we are to keep on keeping on. Hope things settle down soon for you.

i have PAC's and PVC's too. they are frustrating and scary. I feel as if they would continue, it would go into a fib.

As soon as I feel them coming on, I take deep breaths thru my stomach. It seems to help me. I hope it helps you too.

New to this site, can you please tell me what are PACs and PVCs?
Thank you.

Premature atrial contractions (PAC's)
PAC's are beats which originate in parts of the atrium other than the sinus node. These impulses occur prematurely, before the sinus node depolarizes. They are conducted through the atrium and slow down, just like a normal sinus beat, when they reach the A-V node. They are conducted through the ventricle in the same fashion as a normal sinus beat. These are very common, and can be completely unknown to the person, or perceived as a "skip" or a "pause". They may be caused by many of the same conditions as noted for sinus tachycardia above, and are not necessarily an indication of any disease at all. Follow the general measures for palpitations [link]. Treatment with beta-blockers, calcium-channel blockers or other agents can be useful.


Premature ventricular contractions (PVC's)
These are also extremely common. These arise in the lower chambers of the heart, and are associated with many of the same causes as PAC's and sinus tachycardia. They are sometimes viewed with more concern, since multiple consecutive PVC's (ventricular tachycardia) can be associated with serious heart problems and sudden death. However, the vast majority are benign, and do not require treatment. Further testing may be warranted.

petey

Can people tell the difference between the two?

I can't. Only thru EKG do I know what the palpitations really are.

Every so often, I get a series of pretty fast REGULAR beats. I feel them. One day while being routinely examined, My Dr. said, she could hear skipped beats. I didn't feel them at that time.

I would guess these are PAC's. Dr. didn't seem concerned. I have not gone into afib when I get them, but they don't last long....less than a minute that i am aware of.

PS, May today bring lots of Pleasures to Enjoy~

I have occasional PACs when my heart rate is too slow (50's).
I never have them when my heart rate is in the 70's or low 80' during or after exercise. They are isolated, say 1 in a 30 second interval.
I don't worry about them.

Hoping things settle down for you!