I keep feeling strange chest flutters – what could be causing this?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 28-year-old male in good shape and exercise five to six times per week. Lately, I have been feeling strange flutters in my chest, so I started wearing a heart rate monitor. It showed my average resting heart rate is 44 BPM, which seems low. I have noticed these symptoms occur almost daily and seem to worsen if I drink alcohol (one or two beers). Recently, I had an ECG done, and it appeared normal. However, I did another one when my heart felt fluttery, and it showed some unusual results.

Please help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Do you feel as though your heart is racing? Have you ever experienced any dizziness or fainting? Is there a family history of heart disease? Since it started, has it been progressing? You might be experiencing palpitations, which are often benign. However, I would love for you to upload the ECG (electrocardiogram) results so I can study them and ensure there is no underlying pathology.

Best regards.

Answer 2

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I have reviewed the ECG test results you attached (attachment removed to protect patient identity). You have premature ventricular contractions (PVCs), but they are benign since you do not have a family history of heart disease or any personal history of heart disease.

Firstly, you will need to make some lifestyle changes. Reduce alcohol, tobacco, and caffeine, as these are common triggers. Aim to sleep six to seven hours per night and do cardio exercises three to four times a week. If after one to two months you do not experience relief or if the frequency increases, you may need a medication known as a beta blocker, such as Bisoprolol. Consult your specialist doctor, discuss with him or her, and take the medicines with take the medicines with their consent.

There is no need to worry, it is not life-threatening. Hopefully, you will feel better with these adjustments.

Best regards.