Electrocardiogram

An electrocardiogram (EKG) is a recording of the electrical activity of the heart. Electrodes are placed on your arms, legs and chest to record a series of heartbeats that will help determine your diagnosis. It is completely painless.

Holter Monitor

A holter monitor is a device used to continuously monitor heart rhythm for an extended period of time. It can detect irregular heartbeats, and evaluate pacemaker performance and drug therapy effectiveness. The patient keeps a diary of activities and symptoms for the period the monitor is worn. This monitor often records the heart rhythm for 24 hours but can be kept in place for a longer period of time. The device is about the size of a small transistor radio, attached by either shoulder straps or a belt. It has multiple wires (called leads) which are taped to the patient’s chest. The doctor will inform you when and where the monitor will be removed.

Tilt Table

The tilt table test is used to assess fainting spells or dizziness. The patient lies on a tilt table and wears a blood pressure cuff and a painless pulse oximeter. EKG leads are applied to the chest. The patient is monitored lying flat for 10-20 minutes, after which the table is tilted upright and the patient is monitored in that position for another 20-40 minutes. During this test, the patient informs the nurse of any symptoms, including nausea, dizziness, blurred vision, chest pain or a fainting feeling. An exercise stress exam is ordered by your physician to test your heart’s response to exercise.