Electrocardiogram (ECG)

Electrocardiogram (ECG)

An Electrocardiogram (ECG) is a non-invasive diagnostic test that records the electrical activity of the heart. It is widely used to assess heart rhythm, heart rate, and overall cardiac function, helping physicians detect and monitor various heart conditions quickly and accurately.

ECG is a routine and essential tool in cardiology, emergency medicine, and preventive healthcare.

Purpose of an ECG

An electrocardiogram is performed to:

evaluate heart rhythm and detect arrhythmias;

identify signs of coronary artery disease or reduced blood flow to the heart;

diagnose previous or ongoing heart attacks;

assess heart rate abnormalities (tachycardia or bradycardia);

monitor the effectiveness of cardiac medications;

evaluate heart health before surgery or medical procedures;

investigate symptoms such as chest pain, palpitations, dizziness, or shortness of breath.

How the ECG Is Performed

The patient lies comfortably on an examination table.

Small adhesive electrodes are placed on the chest, arms, and legs.

The electrodes are connected to an ECG machine that records the heart’s electrical signals.

The recording takes only a few minutes and is completely painless.

The electrodes are removed, and the test is complete.

The entire procedure typically lasts 5–10 minutes.

Benefits of an Electrocardiogram

non-invasive and painless;

quick and easy to perform;

provides immediate diagnostic information;

safe for patients of all ages;

useful for both diagnosis and long-term monitoring.

Preparation for the Test

No special preparation is usually required. However, patients are advised to:

avoid applying lotions or oils to the chest area before the test;

wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the chest;

inform the healthcare provider about current medications.

Safety and Risks

An ECG is a very safe procedure with no known risks. It does not use radiation or electrical currents entering the body; it only records the heart’s natural electrical activity.

Results

After the test, patients receive:

a recorded ECG tracing;

interpretation by a qualified physician or cardiologist;

recommendations for further testing or treatment if abnormalities are detected.