Can an EKG be useful to diagnose my frequent palpitations?
Patient's Query
Hello,
I am a 19-year-old male, and I have been having frequent heart palpitations and other heart sensations a couple of times daily. I am very uneasy about my heart health. I am going in to get an EKG tomorrow. Should I have any other tests done? An echocardiogram or anything else? Thank you.
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
This can be just anxiety or panic attacks or a cardiac arrhythmia like paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT) or atrial fibrillation, in which the heart rate suddenly increases and decreases. Blood pressure falls during these episodes, and one has dizziness, fainting, blackouts, and sometimes syncope. ECG is usually normal as it is done between the episodes. ECG done during episodes will show abnormality. You will also need 24-hour holter monitoring. Get one echocardiography as well. Visit a nearby cardiologist for this investigation.
Also, hemoglobin and thyroid tests should be done. To abort such episodes, you should try to cough hard. Until your evaluation is complete, you can ask your local doctor for a tablet of Propranolol hydrochloride 20 milligrams once a day. If none of the above is successful, the last option is electrophysiological studies, invasive tests that can permanently diagnose and treat arrhythmia.
I hope this helps.
Please revert so I can assist you further.
Thank you.
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
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