09/02/2023
An electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG) is a simple test that can be used to check your heart's rhythm and electrical activity.
Sensors attached to the skin are used to detect the electrical signals produced by your heart each time it beats.
An ECG is often used alongside other tests to help diagnose and monitor conditions affecting the heart.
It can be used to investigate symptoms of a possible heart problem, such as chest pain, palpitations, dizziness and shortness of breath.
An ECG can help detect:
- Arrythmias - where the heart beats too slowly, too quickly or irregularly.
- Coronary heart disease-where the heart's blood supply is blocked or interrupted by a build up of fatty substances.
- Heart Attacks - where the supply of blood to the heart is suddenly blocked.
- Cardiomyopathy - where the heart walls become thickened or enlarged.
How is an ECG carried out?
The test involves attaching a number of small, sticky sensors called electrodes to your arm, legs and chest. These are connected by wires to an ECG recording machine.
The test itself usually only takes a few minutes and we aim to keep you as comfortable as possible at Manahambre Medical Clinic.
