Premature Atrial Contraction (PAC) refers to a cardiac arrhythmia characterized by an abnormal electrical impulse originating from the atria, causing the premature, or early, contraction of one or both atria. PACs occur before the next expected sinus rhythm beat, interrupting the regular heart rhythm pattern.
In a normal heart, the sinoatrial (SA) node initiates the electrical signal that spreads throughout the atria, causing them to contract. This signal then reaches the atrioventricular (AV) node, which permits the impulse to pass to the ventricles, resulting in their contraction. However, in the case of PAC, an ectopic, or additional, electrical impulse originates from a different area of the atria, disrupting the regular conduction pathway.
PACs usually occur sporadically and are relatively harmless for healthy individuals, often going unnoticed. However, certain factors, such as excessive caffeine or stimulant intake, alcohol, stress, anxiety, or chronic underlying conditions (e.g., heart disease, electrolyte imbalances, or lung diseases), can trigger PACs and increase their frequency.
Diagnosis of PACs generally involves an electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG), which records the electrical activity of the heart. Treatment for PACs may not be necessary if they are infrequent and asymptomatic. However, if the PACs become persistent, cause bothersome symptoms (e.g., palpitations, chest discomfort, or shortness of breath), or are associated with underlying heart disease, treatment options may include lifestyle modifications, medication, or cardiac procedures to address the underlying cause and manage symptoms.
Overall, while PACs may be concerning for some individuals, they are typically not life-threatening and can often be effectively managed with appropriate medical interventions and lifestyle adjustments
