Is an electrocardiogram (ECG) necessary for palpitations?
Disease description:
Recently, I’ve frequently felt palpitations and am somewhat concerned about a possible heart condition. I’d like to get it checked out—do I need an electrocardiogram (ECG) for palpitations?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Li Man
Palpitations require an electrocardiogram (ECG). This is because palpitations may be caused by various arrhythmias, such as sinus tachycardia, paroxysmal tachycardia, or atrial fibrillation. Therefore, only an ECG examination can clarify the underlying cause of the palpitations. However, for episodes of sudden-onset or paroxysmal tachycardia, a standard resting ECG may sometimes fail to capture the abnormal rhythm. In such cases, ambulatory (Holter) ECG monitoring is also necessary to continuously record the ECG over an extended period and thereby identify the cause of the palpitations.
