Electrocardiogram

What is an Electrocardiogram (ECG)?

An electrocardiogram (ECG) is a medical test that records the electrical activity of your heart. It can detect a range of heart conditions and abnormal heart rhythms. An ECG is a simple and painless test that uses electrodes to detect electrical signals from the heart and display them on a monitor or computer screen.

Preparation

Most ECGs do not require any special preparation. You may be asked to remove any jewelry or clothes that could have an effect on the reading. Sometimes, patches of electrodes are applied to the skin to get a more accurate reading.

Procedure

The procedure for an ECG is very simple. It only takes a few minutes and is usually done in the doctor's office or hospital. The electrodes are placed on the chest, arms, and legs to record the electrical activity of the heart. The signal is then transmitted to a computer and displayed as a graph.

Types of Electrocardiograms (ECG)

There are two types of ECGs: a resting ECG and a stress ECG. A resting ECG records the electrical activity of the heart when the person is at rest. A stress ECG records the electrical activity of the heart when the person is exercising or under stress.

Risks

An ECG is a safe and painless procedure that does not pose any serious risks. It is possible to experience some mild discomfort where the electrodes are applied.

Why an Electrocardiogram (ECG)

The main reason for an ECG is to detect signs of heart problems. An ECG is also used to measure the speed and regularity of the heartbeat, as well as other metrics. It can be used to diagnose various heart conditions, including heart attack, arrhythmias, and heart failure.

When an Electrocardiogram (ECG) is Used?

An ECG is one of the most commonly used tests in diagnosing heart conditions. It is usually done when someone has symptoms of a heart condition, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, and palpitations. It is also done to check the health of people who have risk factors for heart disease, such as family history, smoking, hypertension, and diabetes.