There are several ways and reasons to be tested for Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome. If you have arrhythmias or a family history of Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome, your healthcare provider will likely order testing. Sometimes, athletes are tested for the syndrome just to be safe.
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 and lungs with a stethoscope
- Check your blood pressure, heart rate and oxygen level
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.
During this test, a cardiologist uses catheters to send electrodes to the heart to gauge its electrical activity or stimulate an arrhythmia to uncover its origin.
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 and can help your team determine if the electrical defect in your heart is high or low risk.
This device, usually worn for 30 days, allows patients to push a button and record symptoms when they appear. Some event recorders work automatically when irregular heartbeats occur.
A portable rhythm monitor is an ECG you wear – typically from 2-14 days – while doing your usual activities.
