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What is an ECG/EKG (Electrocardiogram)?
What is an ECG/EKG (Electrocardiogram)?“All right, the test has started. Breathe normally.”An electrocardiogram—also called an ECG or EKG—is a test that measures your heart’s electrical activity which is whatcauses the heart muscle to squeeze and pump blood. An ECG records the timing and strength of these impulses toshow if your heart is beating too fast, too slow, or abnormally. It can also tell if your heart is working too hard.“So, if you're having chest discomfort, dizziness, fast heartbeat, palpitations, or many other symptoms associatedwith the heart, an EKG is a good first test to see where this is coming from.”-Dr. Rajiv Chandra, MD, CardiologistBefore the test, tell your provider about any drugs or supplements you take. They could affect your results. When youarrive for the test, you’ll remove your clothes from the waist up and change into a gown.“Go ahead and lie back for me.”Then, you’ll lie on a table or hospital bed. The technician will attach sticky patches called electrodes to your chest,arms, and legs. If you have a lot of hair it may be clipped or shaved to help the patches stick.“The electrodes are attached to a computer that records your electrical impulses. And those impulses will show upas waves on the monitor or a printout.”-Amy Carter, EKG TechnicianThe test takes about 5 to 10 minutes. Afterward, the technician will remove the electrodes and you can go home.“So, if your test is negative, which means it came back benign, it probably is either not your heart, or your doctorneeds to do other testing to see what it is. If the test comes back positive, which means there is a problem withyour heart, your doctor will then explain to you what the next step is, and how best to treat it.”- Dr. RajivChandra, MD, CardiologistPage 1 of 1This program is for informational purposes only. Publisher disclaims all guarantees regarding the accuracy, completeness,or suitability of this video for medical decision making. For all health related issues please contact your healthcare provider.PRG5319098 EN WhatIsAnECGEKGElectrocardiogram.pdf© The Wellness Network
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Learn what an electrocardiogram, or ECG, is and how it works, and why it might be used.
