Are ectopic heartbeats dangerous and when should they be checked?
Many people experience ectopic heartbeats, but knowing when to investigate them is important. In this video, Dr Ravi Assomull explains when ectopics are harmless and when ECGs and further tests are required.
Learn more about Abnormal heart rate or book a consultation with Dr Assomull – no GP referral needed, appointments typically within one working day.
Transcript
In the vast majority of patients, ectopic beats are not dangerous at all. We have to make this judgment by performing an assessment. This will include ensuring that you have a normal ECG, a normal echocardiogram, and by that we are looking to ensure that your heart is structurally normal.
Critically, we also need to ensure there is no family history of any premature cardiac death, and specifically exclude any family history of sudden cardiac death. Finally, we also need to make sure you have no red flag symptoms such as loss of consciousness.
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