Premature atrial contraction or PAC is a condition that affects the heart’s rhythm. It is also known as premature atrial complexes or PACs. In Punjabi, this condition is known as ਫਰਸ਼ਤ ਦਾ ਅਗਲਾ ਹੱਡੀ ਕਾਂਟਰੈਕਸ਼ਨ (pharashat da agla haddi kantraikshan).
PAC occurs when the sinoatrial node, the heart’s natural pacemaker, sends out an early electrical impulse that triggers a premature heartbeat. This extra beat disrupts the heart’s normal rhythm, causing it to skip a beat or feel like it’s fluttering. In most cases, PACs are harmless and do not require any treatment. However, if PACs occur frequently or are accompanied by other symptoms, such as chest pain or shortness of breath, medical attention may be necessary.
Symptoms
The most common symptom of PAC is palpitations, which are sensations of a rapid, pounding or fluttering heartbeat. Patients may also experience a skipped beat or a pause in their heartbeat. Other symptoms can include fatigue, dizziness or lightheadedness, shortness of breath, chest pain, or anxiety.
Causes
PACs are a type of arrhythmia, which means that the heart is not beating correctly. PACs can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
– Stress or anxiety
– Caffeine, tobacco, or alcohol consumption
– Fatigue or lack of sleep
– Medications such as decongestants, asthma inhalers, or stimulants
– Underlying heart conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, or heart valve problems
– Electrolyte imbalances, such as low potassium levels
Diagnosis
To diagnose PACs, a doctor will perform a physical exam and order a diagnostic test, such as an electrocardiogram (ECG). An ECG records the electrical activity of the heart and can detect any abnormalities, such as premature beats.
Treatment
In most cases, PACs do not require any treatment, as they are harmless and do not affect the heart’s overall function. However, if PACs occur frequently or are accompanied by other symptoms, treatment may be necessary. Treatment options may include:
– Avoiding triggers such as caffeine, tobacco, or alcohol
– Managing stress or anxiety
– Treating underlying medical conditions such as high blood pressure or heart disease
– Medications such as beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers to regulate the heart’s rhythm
– Cardioversion, which uses electrical shocks to restore the heart’s normal rhythm
Conclusion
Premature atrial contraction or PAC is a benign condition that affects the heart’s rhythm. In Punjabi, it is known as ਫਰਸ਼ਤ ਦਾ ਅਗਲਾ ਹੱਡੀ ਕਾਂਟਰੈਕਸ਼ਨ. Although PACs can be alarming, they are usually harmless and do not require any treatment. However, if patients experience frequent PACs or other symptoms, they should seek medical attention.