Premature atrial contractions
Published April 17, 2024 | 
( 1998 )
My physician tells me that I have a heart condition called premature atrial (or auricular) contraction. Can you tell me what this is?
The normal heartbeat starts in a specialized region of the right atrium. Premature atrial contractions (PACs) are early beats that often arise from other areas in the right or left atrium. PACs are a common cause of heart palpitations (sensation of an unduly rapid or irregular heartbeat).
PACs seldom indicate or lead to a serious problem. They are often related to the use of excess stimulants, including caffeine and some over-the-counter decongestants. In addition, an overactive thyroid gland can sometimes cause frequent PACs. In unusual cases, they can be a indicative of more serious structural heart disease.