In cardiology, APC stands for atrial premature complex.
Understanding Atrial Premature Complexes (APCs)
Atrial premature complexes (APCs), also known as premature atrial contractions (PACs), are a type of heart arrhythmia characterized by premature electrical impulses originating in the atria, the upper chambers of the heart. These premature beats disrupt the regular heart rhythm.
Other Names for APCs
- Premature supraventricular complexes
- Premature supraventricular beat
- Premature atrial beat
What Causes APCs?
As noted in the reference, APCs can arise from various factors, including:
- Medical Diseases: Underlying health conditions.
- Structural Abnormalities: Issues with the heart's physical structure.
- Pharmaceuticals: Certain medications can trigger APCs.
- Non-regulated compounds: Some non-prescribed substances can lead to APCs.
Characteristics of APCs:
- Premature Beats: APCs interrupt the normal heartbeat sequence, appearing earlier than expected.
- Origin in the Atria: The electrical signal initiating the beat originates in the atria, as opposed to the ventricles (lower chambers).
- Often Asymptomatic: Many people with APCs do not experience any symptoms.
- Potential Symptoms: When symptoms are present, they may include palpitations (awareness of one's heartbeat), a sensation of a skipped beat, or mild discomfort in the chest.
Diagnosis and Management
- Electrocardiogram (ECG): The most common test for diagnosing APCs.
- Holter Monitor: In some cases, a portable ECG device is worn over a longer period to capture intermittent APCs.
- Treatment: Treatment is often unnecessary if the APCs are infrequent and asymptomatic. If symptomatic or associated with an underlying condition, treatment options may include medications, lifestyle modifications, or addressing the underlying cause.
Conclusion
APCs are a common type of heart rhythm disturbance where the electrical signal comes early from the heart's upper chambers. While generally harmless, they can sometimes indicate an underlying condition that needs attention.
