Electrocardiogram: What to Know about the Test

An electrocardiogram (ECG) is a simple and painless test that measures the electrical activity of your heart.

Why is an Electrocardiogram ordered?

It is used to diagnose and monitor various heart conditions, including arrhythmias, heart attacks, and other heart-related problems.

How is an Electrocardiogram done?

During an ECG, small electrodes are attached to your chest, arms, and legs. Meanwhile, electrodes are connected to a machine that records the electrical activity of your heart.

The ECG test is usually performed in a doctor’s office or hospital setting. You will be asked to lie down on a table or bed, and the technician will attach the electrodes to your skin using adhesive pads. Subsequently, the technician may also ask you to breathe deeply or hold your breath for a few seconds during the test to help capture different aspects of your heart’s electrical activity.

What are the Risks?

Typically, the ECG test takes only a few minutes to complete and is generally painless. Afterward, you may feel a slight discomfort when the technician removes the adhesive pads from your skin, but this will be brief.

What Happens After?

After the ECG test is complete, a cardiologist will analyze the results. The results of your ECG will be used to help diagnose any heart-related conditions you may have, and they may also be used to monitor your heart health over time.

In summary, an ECG is a simple and painless test that measures the electrical activity of your heart. It is often used to diagnose and monitor a variety of heart conditions.. If you are scheduled to have an ECG, there is no need to worry – the test is quick, painless, and can provide valuable information about your heart health.

Here at Peds Happy Hearts, our cardiologist performs and reads the electrocardiogram in the office. To schedule an electrocardiogram, contact our office at 406-272-2376.