An electrocardiogram (ECG) is a quick test that can be used to examine the electrical activity and rhythm of your heart. Temporary electrodes are placed on your chest and limbs during an electrocardiogram (EKG/ECG), which records, tracks, and records the electrical activity of your heart (which regulates your heartbeats) for diagnostic purposes. The data is converted by a computer into a wave pattern that your healthcare physician can understand. This is a short, painless test that is not intrusive. As part of a stress test, an EKG can be obtained while you are resting or working out.
An ECG is frequently used in conjunction with other tests to aid in the diagnosis and monitoring of heart-related diseases. It can be used to explore heart-related symptoms such as dizziness, shortness of breath, palpitations (suddenly detectable heartbeats), and chest pain.
In order to check for any heart damage brought on by cancer treatment, a doctor may also utilise an EKG and/or echo during and after cancer treatment. Heart-related long-term side effects, often known as late effects, might develop months or years after treatment. Following cancer therapy, individuals who may require an EKG, echo, or both include:
An ECG can help in the detection of the following:
Arrhythmias: When the heart beats too swiftly, too slowly, or irregularly
Coronary heart disease: A buildup of fatty substances which causes the heart’s blood flow to be obstructed or stopped.
Cardiac attacks: Where the heart’s blood supply is suddenly cut off
Cardiomyopathy: A condition in which the heart’s walls thicken or grow
A person who has already received a diagnosis of a heart problem or who is taking medicine known to have possible adverse effects on the heart can also be monitored over time with a series of ECGs.
There are numerous methods for performing an ECG. Typically, the test entails placing numerous tiny, sticky electrodes on your arms, legs, and chest. These are wired up to an ECG recording device. There is no particular preparation required for the test. You can carry out your regular eating and drinking process as usual. You’ll typically need to
take off your clothing before the electrodes are put on, and your chest might need to be cleaned or shaved. You might be given the option to cover yourself with a hospital gown once the electrodes are in place. Your doctor should discharge you soon after the exam, which normally only lasts a few minutes.
An EKG is typically ordered or performed by a healthcare professional who has expertise in the problems of heart (cardiologist). However, if you’re in an ambulance or an emergency department rather than at a scheduled appointment, other healthcare professionals may be able to provide this test to you. An EKG can be obtained at a hospital, an outpatient facility, or in the office of your healthcare practitioner.
An ECG test is a rapid, painless, and safe procedure. Your body is not exposed to any electricity while it is being performed. However, you might face some discomfort while removing the electrodes from your skin. Additionally, some people may experience a moderate rash where the electrodes were placed. It is done under supervised circumstances to perform an exercise ECG. The person doing the test will closely watch you and halt the procedure if you exhibit any symptoms or begin to feel ill.
