Which of the following conditions could increase the frequency of PVCs?

• A. Caffeine consumption
• B. Regular exercise
• C. Low blood pressure
• D. Elevated electrolyte levels

Answer: (A)

Caffeine consumption is known to be a stimulant that can increase the frequency of premature ventricular contractions (PVCs). This occurs because caffeine can lead to increased adrenergic activity, which can enhance cardiac excitability. When the heart becomes more excitable, the likelihood of experiencing PVCs rises.

In contrast, regular exercise generally has a protective effect on the heart and can actually reduce the frequency of PVCs in many individuals, as it improves cardiovascular health and overall heart function. Low blood pressure can be a sign of various underlying conditions, but it doesn't directly correlate with an increased frequency of PVCs like caffeine does. Elevated electrolyte levels, depending on which electrolytes are elevated, could lead to various cardiac issues, but they are not typically associated with a straightforward increase in PVCs like caffeine. Hence, caffeine's role as a stimulant makes it a more likely candidate for increasing PVC frequency.