To diagnose PVCs and help rule out other heart conditions, your healthcare provider might perform certain tests.
During your initial office visit, your healthcare provider will spend time with you and learn more about your symptoms and overall health. They will:
- Conduct a physical exam
- Discuss your medical history and your current medical conditions
- Listen to your heart with a stethoscope
Blood samples can provide information about electrolyte issues, such as thyroid hormone, magnesium and potassium levels.
An echocardiogram (echo) is a type of ultrasound that shows the function and structure of your heart. It can also detect blood clots.
An electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) records the electrical activity in your heart through electrodes attached to the body and connected to a machine with wires.
For this test, you will walk on a treadmill or ride a stationary bicycle while connected to heart-monitoring equipment. The test shows how well your heart functions during physical activity, including whether blood flow to the heart is reduced with exertion. We check if exercise reduces PVCs, since some go away when you exercise or your heart beats faster.
A patch monitor is a battery-operated ECG that sticks to your chest. While wearing the patch monitor, you can do nearly all your usual activities, even showering. The test usually lasts for one to two weeks.
