Frequent Heart Palpitations: What You Should Know

Frequent heart palpitations, also known as premature beats, can be effectively managed through various medical treatments. These include medications such as beta-blockers like Metoprolol succinate, Propafenone, and Amiodarone, which are commonly prescribed to regulate heart rhythm. In more severe cases, a minimally invasive procedure known as radiofrequency ablation may be recommended for a more permanent solution.

Understanding Heart Palpitations

Heart palpitations occur when the heart beats irregularly due to abnormal electrical signals from areas outside the sinoatrial node, the heart's natural pacemaker. These irregular beats can originate from either the atria or the ventricles, leading to what is medically termed as atrial or ventricular premature contractions.

Types and Frequency of Palpitations

Typically, if a person experiences fewer than six premature beats per minute, it is classified as occasional. However, when the number exceeds this, it is considered frequent. With the widespread use of Holter monitoring, medical professionals now often define frequent premature beats as those exceeding 1% of the total daily heartbeats. Given that the average person has around 100,000 heartbeats per day, surpassing 1,000 premature beats is a key threshold for diagnosing frequent palpitations.

Treatment Options for Frequent Palpitations

For patients experiencing significant discomfort or a high frequency of premature beats, doctors may prescribe medications such as Metoprolol succinate, Propafenone, or Amiodarone to help manage symptoms and regulate heart rhythm. These medications work by stabilizing the heart's electrical activity and reducing the occurrence of abnormal beats.

Considering Long-Term Solutions

If a patient desires a more permanent resolution, radiofrequency ablation may be a suitable option. This procedure involves targeting and eliminating the specific areas in the heart responsible for the abnormal signals, offering a potential cure for frequent premature contractions. It is a safe and effective treatment that has helped many patients regain normal heart rhythm without the need for long-term medication.