An electrocardiogram (EKG) is a medical test that records the electrical signals of the heart. It is used to diagnose heart abnormalities and can be done as part of a regular physical exam or for individuals with known or suspected heart conditions. The test is painless and involves attaching small metal discs to the chest, arms, and legs to record the electrical activity. It is important to remain still during the test, and any heart medications should be disclosed to the doctor. Abnormal results may lead to a referral to a cardiologist for further evaluation.
An electrocardiogram is a medical test usually done to examine the electrical activity in the heart. Often, the test is simply called an EKG or EKG. The test records the electrical signals that make the heart beat. Some doctors do electrocardiograms as part of a regular annual physical exam. Individuals with a known or suspected heart condition may be tested more regularly.
Doctors use electrocardiograms to diagnose different types of heart abnormalities. Patients who come to their doctor with symptoms such as chest pain, heaviness in the chest, dizziness or shortness of breath can have this test. It is often used as an early predictor of a heart problem. The test is often done to also detect an arrhythmia or abnormal heart rhythm. An electrocardiogram can show precisely how fast the heart beats and whether the rhythm of the beat is normal or not.
There may be alternative reasons why a person may have this test. An individual who has had a heart attack may have an EKG to see how much damage the attack has done. People who take heart medications can get tested to see if the medications are doing their job. For example, an individual with a heart arrhythmia may have an EKG to see if medications are correcting the abnormal beats. People with an artificial cardiovascular device such as a pacemaker may have electrocardiograms to make sure the pacemaker is working as it should.
To prepare for an EKG test, an individual will usually be asked to avoid stressful or demanding activities. This will typically include anything that can cause your heart rate to increase significantly. It’s also important to tell your doctor if you are taking any heart medications. Any type of heart medicine can greatly affect the results of this diagnostic test.
Patients will lie down for the test to be performed. The electrodes, which are small metal discs, will be attached to your chest and other areas, such as your arms and often your legs. Prior to applying the pads, the areas will be thoroughly cleaned. The electrodes will be hooked up to a device that will record the electrical activity and capture the results on a paper printout. While taking the test, it will be important to remain quiet and very still, as movement may hinder the test results.
Generally, an EKG is considered a painless test. The electrodes can feel particularly cold as they are placed on the skin and when the small devices are removed, the sensation can be similar to removing a plastic bandage. If a general internist or GP conducts the test and the results are abnormal, the patient may be referred to a specialist for follow-up evaluation. In most cases, your doctor will be a cardiologist, who is a doctor who specializes in cardiovascular disorders and diseases.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
