 Health Guide Drug Guide Images ElectrocardiogramDefinitionAn electrocardiogram (ECG) is a test that records the electrical activity of the heart. See also: Alternative NamesECG; EKG How the Test is PerformedYou 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 TestMake 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 FeelAn 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. Why the Test is PerformedAn ECG is used to measure:
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. Normal Results
What Abnormal Results MeanAbnormal ECG results may be a sign of
Additional conditions under which the test may be performed include the following:
RisksThere are no risks. No electricity is sent through the body, so there is no risk of shock. ConsiderationsThe 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 have yearly routine testing unless they have a family or person history of specific heart diseases or other medical conditions. ReferencesGanz L, Curtiss E. Electrocardiography. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 52.
Review Date:
5/2/2009 Reviewed By: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997-
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