Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG)
An electrocardiogram records the electrical signals in your heart. It’s a common and painless test used to quickly detect heart problems and monitor your heart’s health.
Electrocardiograms — also called ECGs or EKGs — are often done in a doctor’s office, a clinic or a hospital room. ECG machines are standard equipment in operating rooms and ambulances. Some personal devices, such as smart watches, offer ECG monitoring. Ask your doctor if this is an option for you.
Why it’s done?
An electrocardiogram is a painless, noninvasive way to help diagnose many common heart problems in people of all ages. Your doctor may use an electrocardiogram to determine or detect:
- Abnormal heart rhythm (arrhythmias)
- If blocked or narrowed arteries in your heart (coronary artery disease) are causing chest pain or a heart attack
- Whether you have had a previous heart attack
- How well certain heart disease treatments, such as a pacemaker, are working
You may need an ECG if you have any of the following signs and symptoms:
- Chest pain
- Dizziness, lightheadedness or confusion
- Heart palpitations
- Rapid pulse
- Shortness of breath
- Weakness, fatigue, or a decline in ability to exercise
What happens during an EKG?
An EKG is a fast and painless test that can be completed in about 10 minutes. Your technician attaches 10 electrodes to various points of your body, like around your rib cage. These electrodes have adhesives to keep them in place on your skin.
They attach wires to these electrodes, which are attached to the EKG system. The machine then simply starts tracking your heart’s electrical impulses. Once your EKG is complete, you can return to all of your normal activities — no downtime needed.
Because an EKG involves using adhesives to attach the electrodes, it’s helpful to avoid applying lotion to your body the day of your test. For men, your technician might need to shave certain small areas of your chest if there is too much hair for the electrodes to attach.
When will my doctor get my EKG results?
Dr. G Medical Solutions offers on-site EKG testing, your physician gets your results immediately. In some cases, you may be asked to wait while your doctor reviews your EKG reading, so they can discuss them with you when you leave.
Other times, you may be scheduled for a follow-up visit to get your EKG results and find out if further testing or treatment is necessary.
Book your EKG at Dr. G Medical Solutions directly through the website or call the office at 936-327-1015.
