More Electricity Research for Heart

Electrophysiological Studies 

Found this article from The Stanford Hospital. It does a nice job of discussing my PVC issues are providing basic information about the electrical issues that may develop in the heart.  Here is a section that discusses PVC's:

One of the most common heart dysrhythmias/arrhythmias is premature ventricular beats, or PVCs. PVCs are just what they sound like: the ventricles beat sooner than they should.

This means that the ventricle is contracting and pumping out blood before the atrium above it has completely pumped its blood volume into the ventricle. Most of the time, PVCs are harmless.

In fact, almost everyone has them at one time or another. However, if PVCs occur too frequently (more than several times per minute), the heart is unable to pump an adequate volume of blood to the body, which can cause symptoms such as weakness, fatigue, palpitations, or low blood pressure.

First, it is a very common issue.  And the fact that my ventricles are beating sooner then they should, is still my biggest problem in my recovery from open heart surgery.   My biggest issue was during rehab I would have runs of PVC's - 3-4 in a row & they would shut me down at rehab.  The "nice" PVC's that happen once in awhile, or every other beat, "Bigeminy" or every third beat, Trigeminy" are usually not an issue.

 The web site discussing "Bigeminy" also had a great paragraph on causes:

All of us at one time or another experience occasional premature heartbeats. In isolation, these are not usually reason for concern. It is useful, however, to have an understanding of what can precipitate premature heartbeats, including bigeminal heart rhythms. Increasing age, tension, anxiety, overeating, exercise, and stimulants such as caffeine, tobacco, alcohol, and over-the-counter decongestants are all associated with greater frequency of premature heartbeats. Medical conditions may include an overactive thyroid and/or abnormal electrolytes, such as low potassium and magnesium levels. Even prescription medications, like diuretics, can deplete potassium and magnesium levels in the normal course of treatment for high blood pressure and cause increased numbers of premature beats.

  Let's look at the the list above & discuss:

Increasing Age - I hope to continue to do this!  Tension - retirement SHOULD help!  Anxiety - see Tension.  Overeating - I am losing weight!  Exercise - this is what brings on my PVC's, BUT I NEED TO EXERCISE!  Caffeine -I stopped coffee & chocolate! Tobacco - never smoked!  Alcohol - average one beer a month!  Over-the-counter decongestants - rarely sick!  Thyroid - I think it's good.  Potassium & Magnesium - blood tests have been OK.  High blood pressue - NEVER had it!

So, the experiment continues!  Ideas are welcomed!