What is meant by ectopic heart beat?

An ectopic heartbeat refers to a heartbeat that occurs at an abnormal time in the cardiac cycle. This can happen due to an extra electrical impulse in the heart, which leads to the heart contracting earlier than expected, generating a feeling of a skipped or extra beat. The term "ectopic" specifically indicates that the heartbeat originates from a site outside the normal pacemaker of the heart, such as the atria or ventricles, rather than following the typical rhythm established by the sinoatrial node.

Understanding this concept is key, as ectopic beats are common and can occur in healthy individuals as well as those with heart conditions. They can be triggered by various factors, including stress, caffeine, or certain medications. Identifying ectopic beats is crucial for medical professionals because, while often benign, they can occasionally indicate underlying heart disease or other conditions that may require further investigation.