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Electrocardiogram

Electrocardiogram

Definition

An electrocardiogram (ECG) is a test that records the electrical activity of the heart.

See also:

Alternative Names

ECG; EKG

Why the Test is Performed

An ECG is used to measure:

  • Any damage to the heart
  • How fast your heart is beating and whether it is beating normally
  • The effects of drugs or devices used to control the heart (such as a pacemaker)
  • The size and position of your heart chambers

An ECG is a very useful tool for determining whether a person has heart disease. Your doctor may order this test if you have chest pain or palpitations.

An ECG may be included as part of a routine examination in patients over age 40.

How the Test is Performed

You will be asked to lie down. The health care provider will clean several areas on your arms, legs, and chest, and then attach small patches called electrodes to the areas. It may be necessary to shave or clip some hair so the electrodes stick to the skin.

The number of patches used may vary.

You usually need to remain still, and you may be asked to hold your breath for short periods during the procedure. It is important to be relaxed and relatively warm during ECG recording. Any movement, including muscle tremors such as shivering, can alter the results.

The electrodes are connected by wires to a machine that converts the electrical signals from the heart into wavy lines, which are printed on paper and reviewed by the doctor.

Sometimes this test is done while you are exercising or under minimal stress to monitor changes in the heart. This type of ECG is often called a stress test.

How to Prepare for the Test

Make sure your health care provider knows about all the medications you are taking, as some can interfere with test results.

Exercising or drinking cold water immediately before an ECG may cause false results.

How the Test Will Feel

An ECG is painless. No electricity is sent through the body. The electrodes may feel cold when first applied. In rare cases, some people may develop a rash or irritation where the patches were placed.

Risks

There are generally no risks. An ECG only monitors the heart's electrical activity. No electricity is sent through the body, so there is no risk of shock.

Considerations

The accuracy of the ECG depends on the condition being tested. Some heart conditions are not detectable all the time, and others may never produce any specific ECG changes.

A person who has had a heart attack or who may have heart disease may need more than one ECG. There is no reason for healthy people to undergo annual testing unless they have a family history of heart disease or another medical condition.

Normal Results

  • Heart rate: 50 to 100 beats per minute
  • Heart rhythm: consistent and even

What Abnormal Results Mean

Abnormal ECG results may be a sign of

Additional conditions under which the test may be performed include the following:

Review Date: 9/3/2008
Reviewed By: Larry A. Weinrauch MD, Assistant Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Cardiovascular Disease and Clinical Outcomes Research, Watertown, MA.. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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