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Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG)
What is an Electrocardiogram?
An electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) is a medical test that measures the heart’s electrical activity. It is a non-invasive and painless test involving electrodes on the skin to record the heart’s electrical signals. The recorded signals are then translated into a graph showing the heart’s rhythm and any abnormalities. EKG (which is elektrokardiogramm in German) and ECG are actually different spellings of the same diagnostic test that monitors your heart’s electrical activity.
Why is an Electrocardiogram Done?
ECG test is done for several reasons, including:
Diagnosis of heart conditions: An ECG test is used to diagnose various heart conditions, including heart attacks, arrhythmias, heart valve problems, and congenital heart defects.
Assessment of the heart’s health: An ECG test is used to assess the heart’s overall health and to determine if there is any damage to the heart muscle.
Monitoring of heart conditions: An ECG test is used to monitor heart conditions over time, such as in patients with heart disease, pacemakers, or those who have had a heart attack.
Pre-operative assessment: An ECG test is done before surgery to assess the patient’s heart function and to ensure that the patient can undergo surgery safely.
An ECG can aid in the detection of the following:
- Arrhythmias is when the heart beats too slowly, rapidly, or irregularly.
- Coronary heart disease occurs when the blood supply to the heart is obstructed or interrupted due to a buildup of fatty substances.
- Heart attacks may occur when the supply of blood to the heart is cut off suddenly.
- Cardiomyopathy is wherein the heart walls thicken or expand.
ECG, also known as electrocardiography, can also be obtained to monitor a person previously diagnosed with a cardiac problem or receive medications that may affect the heart.
How to Prepare for an Electrocardiogram?
There is no special preparation needed for an ECG test. However, it is recommended to:
- Wear loose-fitting clothing
- Fasting (not eating) is not advised before the test.
- Avoid wearing any jewelry or accessories around the chest area
- Inform the doctor about medications taken, as some can affect the ECG results.
What happens during an Electrocardiogram?
During an ECG test, the patient lies down on an examination table, and electrodes are attached to the skin on the chest, arms, and legs. The electrodes are connected to the ECG machine that records the heart’s electrical activity.
The test commonly takes only a few minutes, and the patient is asked to lie still and breathe normally during the test. If the patient has any concerns or discomfort during the test, they should inform the doctor or technician immediately.
What happens after an Electrocardiogram?
After the ECG test is completed, the electrodes are removed from the patient’s skin, and the results are interpreted by a healthcare professional.
The results are usually available immediately, and the doctor may discuss the results with the patient at the time of the test or during a follow-up appointment.
Echocardiogram vs. Electrocardiogram
An echocardiogram is another type of heart test that uses ultrasound waves to create an image of the heart’s structure and function.
Unlike an ECG test, which measures the heart’s electrical activity, an echocardiogram shows the heart’s physical structure, including the chambers, valves, and blood vessels.
While both tests provide valuable information about the heart, an echocardiogram is more comprehensive and may be recommended in addition to an ECG test in certain cases.
Why choose German Heart Centre for a reliable ECG test?
An ECG test is a quick, safe, and effective way to evaluate heart health and diagnose heart conditions. By caring for your heart health and following medical advice, you can prevent or manage heart conditions and lead a healthy life. If you are looking for an ECG/EKG, approach the German Heart Centre today. Known for its excellent reputation for impeccable clinical care, highest technical standards, and outstanding medical ethics, you will surely get the right guidance at the right ECG test price!
Book your ECG test here!