Arrhythmias may be identified either during routine health
check-ups or when you first report having symptoms. In either
case, the doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical
history, and perform a physical exam, which includes listening
to your heart. For older patients and those with symptoms or
risk factors for heart disease, the healthcare provider will
focus extra attention on cardiovascular health. Tests may
include: Blood Tests —These tests evaluate your overall health,
the function of your kidneys, the levels of various
electrolytes, and may provide clues about your heart's health.
Urine Tests —These tests assess your general health and look for
certain markers in the urine that may determine what is
happening with your heart. Electrocardiogram (EKG) —The EKG
records the heart's activity by measuring electrical currents
that travel through the heart muscle. This test can detect
damaged areas of heart muscle and abnormal beats. Exercise
Stress Test —An EKG is used to record the heart's electrical a