Electrocardiogram, routine, with interpretation and report

Procedure Information

What is an Electrocardiogram?

Electrocardiogram, also called ECG or EKG, is a device used to record on graph paper the electrical activity of your heart. A graph is drawn by a computer from information supplied by the electrodes. An electrocardiogram is a painless test used to quickly assess your heart function and help in the diagnosis of heart problems. The procedure is often done in a doctor's office, a clinic, or a hospital room.

Why would I get an Electrocardiogram?

An electrocardiogram is a non-invasive, painless test that helps in the diagnosis of many heart diseases. Your doctor may use it to:

• Diagnose abnormalities like heart chamber enlargement
• Assess heart rhythm
• Diagnose decreased blood flow to the heart muscle (ischemia)
• Diagnose a heart attack

You may need to do an ECG if you have symptoms like: 

• Chest pain
• Dizziness
• lightheadedness or confusion
• Heart palpitations
• Rapid pulse
• Shortness of breath

What happens during an Electrocardiogram?

An ECG is a safe and painless test. No electricity is put into your body during the procedure.

During a resting ECG, a technician will attach 12 electrodes with adhesive pads to the skin of your arms, legs, and chest. Electrodes record the electrical signals produced by your heart. A computer records the information and displays it like waves on a monitor or paper. It takes about 10 minutes to complete the test. Make sure you are not talking, moving, or shivering because this may distort the test results.

What to expect after an Electrocardiogram?

You can resume your regular activities immediately after your electrocardiogram. The results need to be looked at by a cardiologist to see if there are signs of a potential problem. Other tests may also be needed to tell you whether there's a heart problem or not.

Conclusion

If your result is normal, you may not need any other tests. If the results show an abnormality with your heart, you may require another ECG or other diagnostic tests, such as an echocardiogram. Treatment depends on what's causing your signs and symptoms.

An ECG may be requested by a cardiologist or any doctor who thinks you might have a heart problem, including your GP. Your GP may refer to a cardiologist if your ECG is abnormal and/or if you are at a high-risk for heart disease.

Citations

Mayo Clinic: Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG)

Nhs: Electrocardiogram (ECG) 

Cleveland Clinic: Electrocardiogram (EKG)