An electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) is a medical test that records the electrical activity of the heart. It is a non-invasive and painless procedure that is commonly used to diagnose various heart conditions, including heart attacks, arrhythmias, and heart failure.
During an ECG, small electrode patches are placed on the chest, arms, and legs, which are connected to an ECG machine. The machine records the electrical signals that are generated by the heart as it beats, which are then displayed on a monitor or printed out on paper.
ECGs are often performed as part of a routine physical exam, or in response to symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or palpitations. They are a safe and effective tool for evaluating heart function and can provide valuable information to healthcare providers in order to make informed decisions about treatment options.
Yes, an ECG is a safe, non-invasive test that does not use any radiation or require any special preparation. The small electrodes placed on the skin are not painful and do not cause any discomfort.
During an ECG test, a technician will attach small electrode patches to the skin on the chest, arms, and legs. The electrodes are connected to an ECG machine that records the electrical signals generated by the heart as it beats. The test typically takes only a few minutes to perform.