Symptoms
Symptoms can vary from mild to severe, depending on your heart function and overall health. Some people may not notice any symptoms.
Symptoms include:
- Irregular or rapid pulse or heart beat
- Racing feeling in the chest
- Palpitations, or a pounding feeling in the chest
- Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting
- Sweating
- Pain or pressure in the chest
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue or weakness
- Exercise intolerance
Diagnosis
The doctor will:
- Ask about your symptoms and medical history
- Perform a physical exam
- Listen to your heart with a stethoscope
Tests may include:
- Electrocardiogram (ECG, EKG) —a test that records the heart's activity by measuring electrical currents through the heart muscle
- 24-hour holter monitoring—wearing a heart monitor that records the heart rhythm for 24-hours
- Echocardiogram —a test that uses high-frequency sound waves (ultrasound) to examine the size, shape, and motion of the heart
- Coronary angiography —x-rays taken after a dye is injected into the coronary arteries
- Chest x-ray —to look for underlying conditions
- Blood tests—to look for underlying conditions
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2012 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.
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