For patients experiencing frequent PVCs, which lifestyle change might be recommended?

• A. Increase salt intake
• B. Reduce caffeine intake
• C. Increase physical activity
• D. Change medication regimen

Answer: (B)

Reducing caffeine intake is a recommended lifestyle change for patients experiencing frequent premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) because caffeine is a known stimulant that can increase heart rate and may provoke or exacerbate arrhythmias like PVCs. Caffeine can lead to increased excitability of the myocardium, making it more likely for PVCs to occur, especially in individuals who are sensitive to this substance. By lowering caffeine consumption, a patient may experience a reduction in the frequency of PVCs and a more stable heart rhythm.

The other options do not align as closely with the management of PVCs. Increasing salt intake may lead to fluid retention and increased blood pressure, which could potentially worsen heart function in susceptible individuals. Increasing physical activity is generally beneficial for heart health, but in the context of PVCs, it should be approached cautiously and might not address the specific trigger of PVCs in this scenario. Changing a medication regimen could be appropriate in some instances, but it typically requires assessment by a healthcare provider and may not be a lifestyle change that patients can implement independently.