In this Article A number of tests are used to detect
arrhythmias. Your doctor may recommend some or all of these
tests. An EKG is a simple, painless test that detects and
records the heart's electrical activity. The test shows how fast
the heart is beating and its rhythm (steady or irregular). An
EKG also records the strength and timing of electrical signals
as they pass through each part of the heart. The test can help
diagnose bradycardia and heart block (the most common reasons
for needing a pacemaker). A standard EKG only records the
heartbeat for a few seconds. It won't detect arrhythmias that
don't happen during the test. To diagnose heart rhythm problems
that come and go, your doctor may have you wear a portable EKG
monitor. The two most common types of portable EKGs are Holter
and event monitors. Holter and Event Monitors A Holter monitor
records the heart's electrical activity for a full 24- or
48-hour period. You wear one while you do your normal daily
activities. This allows the monitor to record y