What is an ECG?
An Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) is a test that records the electrical activity of the heart over a period of time. It helps in diagnosing various heart conditions, including arrhythmias, heart attacks, and other cardiac disorders.
How does an ECG work?
An ECG works by attaching small electrodes to the skin of your chest, arms, and legs. These electrodes detect electrical signals from the heart and transmit them to a machine that records the information. The result is a graph of the heart's electrical activity, which can be analyzed by a healthcare professional.
Why is an ECG performed?
ECGs are performed to:
- Assess Heart Health: Determine if there are any irregularities in the heart's rhythm or structure.
- Diagnose Heart Conditions: Identify conditions like arrhythmias, heart attacks, and other cardiac disorders.
- Monitor Heart Disease: Track the effectiveness of treatments for existing heart conditions.
- Evaluate Symptoms: Investigate symptoms like chest pain, palpitations, and shortness of breath.
What happens during an ECG?
During an ECG, you'll be asked to lie down on a bed while the electrodes are attached to your skin. The procedure is painless and usually takes about 5 to 10 minutes. You'll need to remain still while the test is being conducted to ensure accurate results.
What happens after an ECG?
After the ECG, the electrodes will be removed, and you can resume normal activities immediately. Your results will be analyzed by a healthcare professional who will discuss them with you and recommend any necessary follow-up actions or treatments.