Abnormal EKG

[shortie225]

I recently blacked out at work, so I went to the doctor to get things checked out. She ran some labs but also did an EKG which came back abnormal.
Now she wants to do an echo and holter monitor test. I am not trying to be difficult but these are expensive tests and I don't have the best insurance.

My question is can an abnormal EKG be normal, so to speak? She didn't tell me specific medical jargon with what was abnormal with it, but she did say a normal rhythm was mountain, valley, little mountain, and mine had a little valley preceeding the big mountain. I hope that made sense.

What could this indicate? Do I really need both of these tests? I've heard that its somewhat common for women to have abnormal EKGs.
Thanks

[mooksmom]

As a medical professional, you NEED those 2 tests. An abnormal EKG needs further tests to check out the 'abnormality'. The risk you take is sudden cardiac arrest one day...you might survive it or not. I don't know any insurance that would not cover such tests.

[Stephanie_C87]

Emergency Rooms require medical attention before payments (they can bill you later) and that you are stable (medically before they can release you) I had titlt table testing and thats what ultimatly confirmed my condition. I black out frequently. I am 23 years old and not to frighten you but went without the medical treatment I needed. I ran the risk of possible heart damage  like a small heart attack. Abnormal EKG's aren't that abnormal not sure what yours means Im not a doctor but don't neglect your health because of money your life is more important than a bill.

[caregiver222]

There are 21 basic EKG rhythyms and many kinds of abnormalities that can be associated with these patterns.

The answer is clearly that you require additional testing, to include echo, Holter, and stress EKG. Absolutely positively. You also require a neurological evaluation and both an MRI and an MRA. The fact you "blacked out" indicates you have a potentially life-threatening medical problem that must be diagnosed.

There is a high liklihood that your medical situation could deteriorate. Not necessarily, but Russian Roulette is an unforgiving game. This could mean a lifetime of paralysis, loss of speech and wheelchair disability that could be entirely avoided by appropriate timely intervention.

You can also obtain these tests through a clinic, which will charge based on ability to pay, or secure aid through the Hill-Burton Act. See a social worker at your clinic or hospital or do a google search on Hill-Burton.