EKG

EKG or Electrocardiogram is a test that measures the electrical activity of the heartbeat. With each beat, an electrical impulse (or “wave”) travels through the heart. This wave causes the muscle to squeeze and pump blood from the heart. An EKG gives two major kinds of information.

Overview

First, by measuring time intervals on the EKG, a doctor can determine how long the electrical wave takes to pass through the heart. Finding out how long a wave takes to travel from one part of the heart to the next shows if the electrical activity is normal or slow, fast or irregular. Second, by measuring the amount of electrical activity passing through the heart muscle, a doctor may be able to find out if parts of the heart are too large or are overworked.

Procedure

During an EKG, a technician will attach 10 electrodes with adhesive pads to the skin of your chest, arms and legs. If you're a man, you may need to have your chest hair shaved to allow a better connection. In some cases, a technician may apply a small amount of gel to your chest to help the electrodes stick.

Uses

EKGs are used to detect and study many heart problems, such as heart attacks, arrhythmias, and heart failure. The test's results can help doctors decide whether you need further tests or treatments for your heart.

Risks

An EKG is a safe and noninvasive procedure with no known risks. No electricity is sent through your body during the test, and there is no risk of electric shock.

See Also

• Heart Attack
• Arrhythmias
• Heart Failure

EKG Resources
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