Electrocardiogram

An electrocardiogram, also called EKG or ECG, is a quick and painless test to identify issues with your heart’s electrical activity.

It records the electrical signals in your heart with the help of a quick, standard, and painless test used to detect heart problems and monitor your heart’s health. 

There are various reasons why you may need an ECG. If you have exhibited any of the following symptoms, an ECG may be recommended: 

• Chest Pain
• Confusion
• Dizziness
• Heart Palpitations
• Lightheadedness
• Rapid Pulse
• Shortness of Breath
• Weakness and Fatigue
• A decline in the Ability to Exercise

You may also take an ECG if you have a family history of heart disease. It is a test that may be ordered after a cardiology consultation or preventative cardiac evaluation. 

The test can be used to get a baseline tracing of your heart’s function, which can then be compared against future ECGs to see if there have been any changes in your heart’s function. If you are going to have surgery or start treatment for a heart condition, an ECG can be a great way to establish the overall health of your heart. 

Your cardiologist can also use it to see if an implanted pacemaker works correctly. 

If you are taking heart medicines, an ECG can be used to see if the medications are working and producing the right reactions in your heart. 

An electrocardiogram can be used to determine or detect several different heart conditions and issues, such as whether you:

• Have irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias) 
• Had a previous heart attack
• Have narrowed or blocked arteries in the heart that are causing chest pain or could contribute to a heart attack. 

An electrocardiogram is a quick, easy, and noninvasive way to look at your heart. Most people do not feel anything during the ECG itself, but you may feel slight discomfort when the sticky electrodes are removed from your skin. The electrode patches can cause skin irritation if left on for too long. 

Conditions that can interfere with the results from an ECG include:

• Certain medicines
• Fluid buildup in the abdomen
• Pregnancy
• Anatomical considerations, such as the size of your chest and the location of your heart inside your chest
• Exercising before the test
• Smoking before the test
• Electrolyte imbalances
• Movement during the test

To prepare for the test, Dr. Lilian Ahiable will explain the test to you and answer any questions you may have. You will need to inform her about any medications you are taking, including over-the-counter medications, such as vitamins, herbs, and supplements. Let her know if you already have a pacemaker. 

You will be asked not to eat for a specific amount of time before the test. You may be given additional preparation directions based on your unique circumstances. 

The exact steps can vary, but generally, an ECG follows the process below: 

• Remove any jewelry or items that may interfere with the test.
• Remove your clothing from the waist up, putting on a gown. 
• Lay flat on a table or bed. Lie still and do not talk or move. 
• If you have hairy arms, legs, or chest, the technician may shave or clip small patches of hair where the electrodes need to go. 
• Electrodes are attached to your chest, arms, and legs. 
• Lead wires are attached to the electrodes. 
• The technician will enter information into the ECG’s computer. 
• The ECG will start; it doesn’t take long to complete.
• Once the tracing is complete, the lead wires will be disconnected and the electrodes removed from your skin. 

The test is relatively straightforward and doesn’t take very long to complete. After the test, there are no special care instructions. You can go back to your normal activities and diet.

Schedule a consultation so the team at Sydnor Cardiovascular Center can monitor your heart health using cardio health tools, such as the electrocardiogram. 

For appointments, call 727-300-2282 or request an appointment online and learn how to protect your cardiac health.