Ectopic beat

Need to know

• What are the symptoms of an ectopic beat? icon plus

  • a pounding or fluttering sensation in your chest
  • your heart beating erratically
  • similar sensations in your throat or neck

• Diagnosing ectopic beats icon plus

  Ectopic beats are usually nothing to be concerned about. However, it's a good idea to contact a consultant if they last a long time, don't improve, get worse or if you have a history of heart problems. Your consultant will speak to you about your symptoms, take your medical history and perform a physical examination of your chest using a stethoscope. They may also request the following tests:

  • blood tests
  • electrocardiogram (ECG), to check your heart rate
  • echocardiogram (an ultrasound scan of your heart)

• Potential treatment options icon plus

  Whether or not you need treatment will depend on the underlying cause of your ectopic heart beat, how severe your symptoms are and whether or not your heart is normal. Treatment options may include:

  • prevention, identifying and avoiding the triggers of your ectopic beats may help
  • beta blockers — medications that can lower your heart rate and control your heart rhythm
  • antiarrhythmic drugs which reduce the irritability of the ectopic area