An EKG can detect a large variety of heart problems. Some of the most common conditions that require a specialized EKG for an accurate diagnosis include: ● Arrhythmias - Arrhythmias are abnormal heart rhythms such as bradycardia, ventricular tachycardia, and atrial fibrillation. ● Heart disease - Cardiomyopathy and valvular heart disease are two examples of heart problems that can be detected with an EKG. ● Myocardial infarction - This refers to heart attack-related damage to the heart muscle that is also confirmed with blood work. ● Pulmonary embolism - Blockage of a blood vessel in the lungs, or pulmonary embolism, can interfere with the electrical activity of the heart. ● Congenital heart defects - These are heart abnormalities that exist from birth. ● Electrolyte imbalances - Unusual concentrations of minerals, including potassium, calcium, and magnesium, can interfere with the rhythm of the heart. ● Pericarditis - This condition is characterized by inflammation of the lining surrounding the heart. ● Heart block - A slow heart rate can result from a heart block, which is a condition where the electrical impulses in the heart are blocked or delayed. ● Bundle branch block - This is a condition in which one of the heart's electrical pathways is delayed or blocked. ● Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome - Rapid heart rhythms can result from this condition, which is caused by an additional electrical pathway in the heart. ● Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy - This condition causes the heart muscle to grow abnormally, potentially affecting the electrical activity of the heart. ● Brugada syndrome - A genetic disorder called Brugada syndrome has the potential to lead to dangerous arrhythmias and unexpected cardiac arrests. ● Other conditions - EKGs can also help detect abnormalities in the heart caused by stress, drug or alcohol use, and other medical conditions. To improve your heart condition, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We have convenient locations to serve you in Woodbridge VA, Falls Church VA, Pentagon City VA, Arlington VA, Kingstowne Center VA, Richmond Hwy Alexandria VA, and Alexandra VA.