An Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) is one of the most commonplace and critical exams used to evaluate heart fitness. It’s a brief, painless, and non-invasive take a look at that allows medical doctors discover any irregularities within the heart’s rhythm and feature.
What Is an ECG?
An ECG measures the electrical hobby of the heart. Every heartbeat is triggered with the aid of an electrical impulse that travels thru the coronary heart, assisting it pump blood efficiently. The ECG records those electrical indicators through small electrodes placed on the skin, generally on the chest, arms, and legs.
Why Is an ECG Done?
Doctors endorse an ECG for several motives, including:
Detecting heart issues including arrhythmia (abnormal heartbeat), coronary heart attack, or bad blood float to the coronary heart.
Monitoring heart fitness for sufferers with current situations like hypertension, diabetes, or coronary heart ailment.
Evaluating chest pain, palpitations, dizziness, or shortness of breath.
Checking the effectiveness of medications or scientific gadgets which include pacemakers.
Routine screening, in particular earlier than surgical treatment or as a part of a normal fitness checkup.
How Is the Test Performed?
The take a look at is easy and takes only some mins. Electrodes are connected to the pores and skin, and the affected person is asked to lie nevertheless whilst the ECG machine records the coronary heart’s interest. There’s no discomfort, and no energy passes into the body — it best information the coronary heart’s herbal signals.
Types of ECG Tests
There are extraordinary forms of ECG checks depending at the want:
Resting ECG: Done while mendacity nonetheless to check popular coronary heart rhythm.
Stress ECG: Performed in the course of workout to see how the coronary heart works below bodily pastime.
Holter Monitoring: A transportable ECG device that records heart hobby over 24–48 hours for ongoing observation.
What Do the Results Mean?
The ECG report allows doctors perceive:
- Irregular heartbeat styles (arrhythmias)
- Signs of a previous or ongoing heart attack
- Structural coronary heart issues or electrolyte imbalances
If any abnormality is determined, your health practitioner might also recommend further exams or remedies.
Conclusion
An ECG is a essential diagnostic device that provides valuable insights into heart fitness. Whether it’s for detecting a hassle, tracking remedy, or making sure your heart is functioning generally, getting an ECG on the right time could make a sizeable distinction in retaining a healthful heart.
