EKG/ECG (electrocardiogram)
The ECG is a device that records on graph paper the electrical activity of the heart. The picture is drawn by a computer from information supplied by the electrodes. This quick painless test is used for routine physical exams as a way to diagnose
- Abnormal heart rhythm
- Poor blood flow to the heart muscle (ischemia)
- Heart attack
- Abnormalities of your heart, such as heart chamber enlargement or abnormal electrical conduction
Preparation instructions for EKG/ECG:
- Avoid using oil or skin lotions the day of the test, since they can interfere with the adhesives used to attach the electrodes to your body.
- Choose hosiery and socks that are easy to remove, as electrodes will be placed directly on the legs.
- Wear a shirt that's easy to take off, in order to have leads placed on the chest.
What to expect:
During a resting ECG, a technician will attach 10 electrodes with adhesive pads to the skin of your chest, arms and legs. Men may have chest hair clipped to allow a better connection. You will lie flat while the computer creates a picture, on graph paper, of the electrical impulses traveling through your heart.
It takes about 10 minutes to attach the electrodes and complete the test, but the actual recording takes only a few seconds.
A cardiologist will interpret the results and provide them to your physician. Your ECG patterns will be kept on file for comparison with future ECG recordings.
Learn more about electrocardiograms. » Go
