What is an electrocardiogram (EKG) test?
The electrocardiogram is also known as EKG. It is used to measure electric impulses from the heart. It can evaluate the activity level of the heart. EKG tests can tell you if the heart is beating at a normal pace or not. Judging by that activity cardiologist can determine the beating rate and strength. If there is an irregularity in the heartbeat then it could mean damage to heart muscles.
What is it used for?
- Irregular heartbeat (known as arrhythmia)
- Obstructed arteries
- Cardiac damage
- Cardiovascular failure
- Heart attack
The EKG is often used to diagnose a suspected heart attack in ambulances, emergency rooms, or any other healthcare facilities. An EKG test is also included in a routine test for middle-aged and older individuals, as they are at risk of developing heart issues than young people.
Why do I need an EKG test?
EKG or ECG has primary use in diagnosing heart conditions, which includes:
- Chest Pain
- Fast or irregular heartbeat
- Difficulty in breathing
- Exhaustion
- Nausea
EKG or ECG is also helpful when:
- You were previously hospitalized for a heart attack or other heart illnesses
- Suffering from genetic heart problems
- You are prepped for surgery. Your health care provider may want to examine your heart functioning before the medical process.
- Have a pacemaker. The EKG can demonstrate how smoothly the heart is operating.
An EKG can also tell you if your medication is helpful in heart issues. It can also suggest adjustments you need to make in the treatment.
How Does the EKG Test Take Place?
An EKG is available in all hospitals, ER rooms, and clinics because It is an essential tool in diagnosing and treating cardiac problems. The process involves:
- Lie on the examination table
- A health care provider will place several electrodes on your limbs, knees, and chest. The operator may need to shave or cut additional hair before attaching the electrodes.
- The electrodes are attached by cords to an operating system that documents your heart activity
- The complete heartbeat will be shown on the monitor screen or the piece of paper
- EKG takes only about three to five minutes
What are the Risk Factors in EKG?
EKG comes with minimum or no risk factors. Aside from little irritation to the skin layer where the electrodes are placed, there is no major risk. The common misconception is that EKG sends electrical current to the body, however, this is not the case. It is a completely safe process and only records electric impulses from the heart.
The Result of EKG
If the EKG results are normal then you have nothing to worry about. If your EKG tests are not normal, then it could mean that you are suffering from the following medical conditions:
- Irregular heartbeat
- Obstruction in heart arteries
- Cardiac arrest
- Damage to heart muscles
- Heart Attack (EKG can not only tell you if you had a heart attack but also crucial in determine recent damage to heart muscles)
- Lack of blood supply to the heart
A physician could better guide you about the results and treatment
Different Types of EKG
EKG or ECG comes in many types. Aside from standard EKG, other types include:
Holter monitor: It is a portable device. It does the same thing as standard EKG. It can detect irregular heartbeat, and also diagnose the decrease of blood flow to the heart or palpitation.
Event monitor: The main advantage that it provides is that the patient can take it with him wherever he goes. The event monitor comes with a button. Upon pressing the button, it starts recording the electrical activity of the patient’s heart.
Average ECG: This examines the people suffering from heart problems known as tachycardia, which can cause cardiac arrest. The EKG test is identical to the standard EKG. But it employs sophisticated formulas to evaluate the danger.
Bottom Line
ER of Dallas is providing heart test services at very reasonable prices. EKG has found many uses due to technological advancements and medical innovation. It is an essential tool for your heart health. It can reduce the chances of a person suffering from a deadly heart attack. As it can timely diagnose and treat dangerous conditions.