Diagnostic Tools
Many diagnostic tools can be used to diagnose an arrhythmia. We have a selection of checklists which are available download and doctors find them to be an invaluable source in which they can make an informed, effective and timely diagnosis.
Palpitation Checklist |
Arrhythmia Checklist |
If you experience what you believe is an irregular heartbeat then our affiliated sister charity, Atrial Fibrillation Association (AFA) offers the Atrial Fibrillation Checklist. Visit www.atrialfibrillation.org.uk to learn more.
If you experience unexplained loss of consciousness (blackouts) then our affiliated sister charity, STARS (Syncope Trust And Reflex anoxic Seizures) offers the Blackouts Checklist. Visit www.stars.org.uk to learn more. If your doctor suspects from your symptoms that you have an arrhythmia, then he or she may order one or more of the following heart rhythm tests to try and determine the type of arrhythmia you may have.
Heart Rhythm Monitoring
A Heart Rhythm Monitor is a diagnostic test in which the electrical activity of your heart is recorded in order to identify an irregular heart rhythm. Your heart rhythm can be recorded in a number of ways.
- Electrocardiogram (ECG)
- Holter Monitor (24hr/7 days)
- Implantable Loop Recorder (ILR)
Electrocardiogram (ECG)
An Electrocardiogram (ECG) can be used as a means to record electrical activity that triggers each heartbeat. Small patches (electrodes) that are connected to an ECG machine will be attached to various parts of your body. The electrodes will pick up the electrical activity in your heart and will translate it into a way that can be interpreted by a doctor. The ECG is quite critical in assessing a heart rhythm disorder, the presence of any underlying heart problems, whether an arrhythmia is present, and whether it is an arrhythmia that requires treatment. During the ECG test you should not feel any pain or discomfort.
Exercise ECG
You may also be asked to have an ECG while you are exercising, usually walking on a treadmill for approximately 15-20 minutes. The same types of electrodes are used for an exercise ECG as a normal ECG. Once you have started walking on the treadmill, the intensity will gradually increase. Throughout the test your heart will be monitored via the ECG recordings to see how your heart is working.
Holter Monitor Test
If your symptoms ‘come and go’ your doctor might suggest a Holter Monitor test, which is a continuous ECG recoding over approximately 24 hours. Again, electrodes will be placed on your body, and this time they will be taped down. During a Holter Monitor test the wires will be attached to a smaller, portable device which can be strapped to the chest. After the specified time period the monitor can be returned to your doctor to see whether any arrhythmias have been indicated.
Implantable Loop Recorder (ILR)
If the cause of your symptoms can not be determined following an ECG and a Holter Monitor test, then your doctor may consider an Implantable Loop Recorder (ILR). The ILR can monitor heart rhythms for months at a time, and can remain in place for up to three year. An ILR has to be inserted underneath your skin, just below the collarbone. In order to record an episode you must press a button on a hand held activator while it is placed over the ILR. This must be done either whilst experiencing symptoms or as near to the event as possible.
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