EKG

Electrocardiogram

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EKG Test Overview

An electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG) is a test that checks for problems with the electrical activity of your heart. An EKG shows the heart's electrical activity as line tracings on paper. The spikes and dips in the tracings are called waves.

The heart is a muscular pump made up of four chambers. The two upper chambers are called atria. The two lower chambers are called ventricles. A natural electrical system causes the heart muscle to contract. This pumps blood through the heart to the lungs and the rest of the body. CSS Healthcare provides EKG tests, call us today for an appointment.

An EKG Is Done To

Check the heart's electrical activity.
Find the cause of unexplained chest pain or pressure

This could be caused by a heart attack, inflammation of the sac surrounding the heart (pericarditis), or angina

Find the cause of symptoms of heart disease

Symptoms include shortness of breath, dizziness, fainting, and heartbeats that are rapid and irregular (palpitations)

Find out if the walls of the heart chambers are too thick
Check how well medicines are working and to see if they are causing side effects that may affect the heart
Check how well mechanical devices that are implanted in the heart, such as pacemakers, are working

These devices help to control the heartbeat

Check the health of the heart when other diseases or conditions are present

These include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, cigarette smoking, diabetes, and a family history of early heart disease

How to Prepare for an EKG?

Be sure to tell your doctor about all the medicines you take, even over-the-counter ones. Many medicines can change the results of this test.

Remove all jewelry from your neck, arms, and wrists. Men are usually bare-chested during the test. Women may often wear a bra, T-shirt, or gown. You will be given a cloth or paper covering to use during the test.

Talk to your doctor about any concerns you have regarding the need for the test, its risks, how it will be done, or what the results will mean.

What Happening During the Test?

You may get an EKG at your health professional's office or during a series of tests at a hospital or clinic. EKG equipment is often portable-- this means the test can be done almost anywhere. If you are in the hospital, your heart maybe constantly monitored by an EKG system.

During an EKG:

You will lie on a bed or table. Certain areas of your arms, legs, and chest will be cleaned and may be shaved. This provides a clean, smooth surface to attach the electrodes.
Several electrodes are attached to the skin on each arm and leg and on your chest. These are hooked to a machine that traces your heart's activity onto a paper. If an older machine is used, the electrodes may be moved at different times during the test. This measures your heart's electrical activity from different places on your chest.
You will be asked to lie very still and breathe normally during the test. Sometimes you may be asked to hold your breath. You should not talk during the test.
After the test, the electrode paste is wiped off.

The test usually takes 5 to 10 minutes.