What Is an Electrocardiogram (ECG)?
An ECG, or Electrocardiogram, is a simple, non-invasive test that measures the electrical activity of your heart. It records your heart’s rhythm and electrical signals to help your healthcare provider assess how well your heart is functioning.
Why an ECG Is Important
An ECG can help detect a range of heart-related issues, such as:
- Irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias)
- Heart attack (current or previous)
- Poor blood flow to the heart (ischemia)
- Structural or electrical abnormalities
Your doctor may recommend an ECG if you’re experiencing symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, or heart palpitations, or as part of a routine health check.
What Happens During the Test
During the procedure:
- You’ll be asked to lie down and relax.
- The nurse will attach small, sticky patches called electrodes to your chest, arms, and legs.
- These electrodes detect the tiny electrical signals that control each heartbeat.
- The ECG machine records these signals and displays them as tracing.
The test is quick, painless, and usually takes only a few minutes to complete.
Understanding Your Results
Once the ECG is complete, it will be sent to our pathology provider to be reported on and then your doctor will review the results to identify any irregularities in your heart’s rhythm or electrical activity.
If any concerns are found, further tests or follow-up appointments may be arranged to help diagnose and manage any underlying conditions.
