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ECG
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WHAT IS ECG ?
An electrocardiogram (EKG/ECG) uses temporary electrodes on your chest and limbs to monitor, track and document your heart’s electrical activity (which controls your heartbeats) for diagnostic purposes. A computer translates the information into a wave pattern your healthcare provider can interpret. This is a quick, noninvasive test that doesn’t hurt. You can get an EKG while lying down and resting or while you’re exercising as part of a stress test.
Sensors attached to the skin are used to detect the electrical signals produced by your heart each time it beats.
These signals are recorded by a machine and are looked at by a doctor to see if they’re unusual.
An ECG may be requested by a heart specialist (cardiologist) or any doctor who thinks you might have a problem with your heart, including your GP.
Types of ECG devices
There are 3 main types of ECG:
- a resting ECG – carried out while you’re lying down in a comfortable position
- a stress or exercise ECG – carried out while you’re using an exercise bike or treadmill
- an ambulatory ECG (sometimes called a Holter monitor) – the electrodes are connected to a small portable machine worn at your waist so your heart can be monitored at home for 1 or more days
The type of ECG you have will depend on your symptoms and the heart problem suspected.
Symptoms you can diagnose with an EKG
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Your provider may give you an EKG test because you have:
- Chest pain.
- Shortness of breath.
- Tiredness.
- Dizziness.
- A flutter or skip in your heartbeat.
- A fast heartbeat.
What are the risks of an EKG test?
An EKG is a low-risk test. It doesn’t use radiation or put electricity into your skin. You might have some skin irritation after your healthcare provider removes the sticky patches that were attached to the sensors.