Contents
Palpitations: The Essential Tests You Need to Know About
Published: Aug 21, 2024
When your heart races, understanding the right tests can be crucial to uncovering the cause. Discover what tests can help diagnose the reason behind palpitations.
The Importance of ECG
A 12-lead Electrocardiogram (ECG) is a fundamental test for anyone experiencing palpitations. It records the heart's electrical signals and can detect any arrhythmias or structural heart issues. This test is quick and often part of the initial evaluation for palpitations.
Ambulatory Monitoring
If the ECG doesn't reveal the cause, ambulatory cardiac monitoring may be used. This involves wearing a monitor for a period, ranging from a day to weeks, to catch any irregularities over time. It’s particularly useful for intermittent palpitations not captured during a brief ECG.
When Is an Echocardiogram Needed?
An echocardiogram is suggested if a structural heart problem is suspected. This test uses ultrasound to create images of your heart, helping to identify issues like valve problems or cardiomyopathy. It's a non-invasive procedure that offers detailed insight into heart function.
Frequently Asked Questions
A 12-lead ECG is typically the first test performed.
It can detect intermittent issues not found in a short ECG.
If a structural heart issue is suspected.
The Bottom Line
Testing is crucial for diagnosing the underlying cause of palpitations.
References
- Kinlay S, Leitch JW, Neil A, et al. Cardiac event recorders yield more diagnoses and are more cost-effective than 48-hour Holter monitoring in patients with palpitations. A controlled clinical trial. Ann Intern Med 1996; 124:16.
- Zimetbaum PJ, Kim KY, Josephson ME, et al. Diagnostic yield and optimal duration of continuous-loop event monitoring for the diagnosis of palpitations. Ann Intern Med 1998; 128:890.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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