Tests and diagnosisBy Mayo Clinic staff Your doctor can make a
diagnosis of a specific tachycardia based on your answers to
questions about symptoms, a physical exam and heart tests.
Common tests include the following. An electrocardiogram — also
called an ECG or EKG — is a primary tool for diagnosing
tachycardia. An ECG uses small sensors (electrodes) attached to
your chest and arms to record electrical signals as they travel
through your heart. Your doctor can look for patterns among
these signals to determine what kind of tachycardia you have and
how abnormalities in the heart may be contributing to a fast
heart rate. Your doctor may also ask you to use portable ECG
devices at home to provide more information about your heart
rate. These devices include: - Holter monitor. This portable ECG
device is carried in your pocket or worn on a belt or shoulder
strap. It records your heart's activity for an entire 24-hour
period, which provides your doctor with a prolonged look at your
heart rhythms. Your doctor wil