Understanding the Normal Heart Rate

Have you ever felt a sudden pause in your heartbeat? If you're like many, you've wondered, 'Is this normal?' This article delves into the nuances of heart rhythms, focusing on what heart skipping beats mean and how to manage them, backed by scientific insights and clinical perspectives.

What is the Normal Pulse Rate?

What is the normal pulse rate? It's a common question, especially among students starting their third-year clinical postings in medical schools. Typically, a normal resting heart rate is between 60 to 100 beats per minute (bpm) for adults. Sir, 72 bpm is normal, but for your age and activity level, 65 bpm might be slightly on the lower side. Surprisingly, my pulse rate is 65 yours is 80. So both of us are abnormal? This mistaken belief showcases the variability in what is considered 'normal'.

Biological Parameters and Normal Ranges

Biological parameters such as blood pressure, heart rate, body temperature, blood sugar, or cholesterol all have a range, and the line between normal and abnormal is often vague. In biology, variability and adaptation are the keys to survival. This variability explains why your heart rate might differ from normal, depending on your age, activity level, and stress factors.

Heart tissue, or myocardium, is inherently an excitable tissue. This means it can twitch on the application of an electrical impulse, rare as it might be. It can also spontaneously twitch (depolarize) in response to changes in local electrolytes such as potassium or calcium, or due to other factors like changes in pH, reduction in blood supply, or even excess alcohol in the blood.

Causes of Heart Skipping Beats

Skipping a beat is a natural occurrence in the heart, and it's often due to early contractions known as premature ventricular complexes (PVCs). These are extra beats generated by the atria or ventricles. An APC (atrial premature complex) is an extra beat from the atria, while a PVC (premature ventricular complex) is an extra beat from the ventricles.

These extra beats cause the heart to reset its rhythm, leading to the feeling of a skipped beat. The bizarre broad complex on an ECG is often a PVC, and the next normal beat will follow a longer pause. It's important to note that most isolated, occasional premature beats are harmless.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While occasional skipping beats are normal, you should seek medical attention if you experience frequent PVCs, dizzy spells, increasing heart rate, or chest pain. Additionally, if you have a family background of heart disease, it's crucial to consult a doctor for a cardiac checkup. Routine tests like an ECG, echocardiogram, Holter monitor, treadmill exercise test, and basic blood work can help rule out any structural heart disease and underlying conditions like anemia and thyroid disorders.

Very rarely, PVCs may be a harbinger of major cardiac arrhythmias, which is why it's important to monitor any unusual symptoms closely.

Managing Skipping Beats

If you feel troubled by skipped beats despite these being harmless, here are some management strategies to consider:

Regular Exercise: Engage in at least 20 minutes of cardio daily. Regular exercise can reduce the frequency of PVCs. Avoid Stimulants: Cut down on caffeine from sources like coffee, coke, and dark chocolate. They can trigger PVCs, making your heart more alert. Limit Alcohol Consumption: Excessive alcohol can affect your heart rhythm and should be minimized. Avoid Medications Containing Stimulants: Some nasal sprays and cold tablets contain stimulants that can cause PVCs. Be cautious when using such products. Manage Anxiety: While easier said than done, reducing anxiety can significantly help. Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are beneficial. Medications: In more severe cases, medications such as beta blockers may be prescribed to alleviate PVCs.

More you worry, your heart is likely to skip more beats. Focus on reducing your anxiety and engaging in healthy lifestyle practices. If you're still concerned, bring your worries to the professionals for assessment and guidance.

Conclusion: Heart skipping beats, while initially alarming, are often a natural and harmless occurrence. With a better understanding of heart rhythms and appropriate management techniques, you can maintain a healthy heart.