I've been having heart palpitations while exercising for the past 10 months or so. Usually it happens between reps during a high intensity workout, and the frequency increased from once every month or two to multiple times over the Summer months. Today I went to a cardiologist and had an echocardiogram and an exercise stress test done (Bruce protocol). I got up to 18 minutes before tapping out, and on my recovery the palpitations started up. My doctor wasn't there to diagnose me, but another cardiologist took a look and said that I'm having PAC's with a few PVC's mixed in as well. He said that they are not life threatening, that my heart is still very strong despite them, the blood flow isn't restricted anywhere, and it may just be due to catecholamines.
Other info: I'm a male, 23 years old, been running about 7 years, modest pr's (16:57 5k, 1:59 800, 51.9 400). I had one palpitation episode back in high school and was given a heart monitor to wear, but being an invincible little deuscher I never wore it. I didn't have any palpitations from 2008 until last Fall.
So do any of you LRCers have a recurring PAC/PVC? Does it effect your running? Are you on medications? Can I live a normal and healthy life without taking medications? Will it develop into something worse if I do? Any input would be greatly appreciated.