Was this a painful heartbeat, an ectopic beats, PVC or chest spasm? I have a history of anxiety

So I was just sitting working and experienced an extra, hard beat right in the mid of my chest, localized was this super sharp pain and it gave me a head rush. It went away in seconds. I've never had this before. Like of this magnitude. I've had some in the past but this one gave me a quick jolt in my head. I have been overcoming successfully now a long battle with anxiety and stress which I'm winning. So of course I still get into my head from time to time. Also I notice if I don't breath regularly like properly because I'm working on the computer and so into it, that I forget to breath normally, I get these ectopics beats once in a while. Howver this one was a super hard and painful one. So was it that? Also what is the difference between an ectopic beat and a PVC, aren't they the same?

Any advice is appreciated

Thanks

Hi.

The experience you're describing sounds like it was quite startling. It's important to approach this with caution and seek medical advice for a definitive diagnosis and guidance.

Ectopic Beats: An ectopic heartbeat is a general term for an irregular heartbeat. It means that the heartbeat is originating from somewhere other than the heart's regular rhythm system. These can feel like a fluttering or a brief pause followed by a stronger beat.
Premature Ventricular Contractions (PVCs): PVCs are a specific type of ectopic beat that originate in the ventricles of the heart (the lower chambers). They are quite common and can occur in healthy individuals without any heart disease, especially during periods of stress or fatigue. A PVC feels like a skipped beat followed by a stronger-than-normal subsequent beat.
Difference Between Ectopic Beat and PVC: Essentially, a PVC is a type of ectopic beat. Ectopic beats can also originate from the atria (the upper chambers of the heart), which are then called premature atrial contractions (PACs).
Symptoms Like Yours: The sensation of a hard, extra beat followed by sharp pain and a head rush could be a PVC or another type of ectopic beat. Stress, anxiety, caffeine intake, and certain medications can increase the likelihood of experiencing these.
Breathing and Ectopic Beats: Improper breathing, especially during intense focus or stress, can sometimes lead to changes in heart rhythm. This is because breathing patterns can affect the heart's rhythm and the balance of oxygen and carbon dioxide in your body.
Seeking Medical Advice: Since this was a particularly strong and painful episode, and it's different from what you've experienced before, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional. They can conduct appropriate tests like an electrocardiogram (EKG) to assess your heart's rhythm and rule out any underlying conditions.
Managing Anxiety and Stress: Continuing to manage stress and anxiety is important, as these can contribute to the sensation of ectopic beats. Mindfulness, regular exercise, and breathing exercises can be beneficial.

Remember, while occasional ectopic beats can be normal, especially in the context of stress, any new, severe, or troubling symptoms warrant a consultation to ensure that there is no underlying heart condition.