An Electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG) is a diagnostic test that records the electrical activity of the heart over a period of time. It's a commonly performed non-invasive test used to assess the heart's rhythm and electrical conduction system. Here's how it works and why it's used:
Procedure: During an EKG, small electrodes are placed on the skin of the chest, arms, and legs. These electrodes are connected to an EKG machine, which records the electrical signals produced by the heart as it beats. The test is painless and usually takes just a few minutes to complete.
Electrical Activity: The heart's electrical activity is what triggers the heart muscle to contract and pump blood throughout the body. The EKG records this activity as waves or patterns on a graph paper or on a screen. Each wave corresponds to a specific electrical event in the heart's cycle.
Interpretation: Healthcare providers interpret the EKG tracing to assess the heart's rhythm, rate, and other parameters. They look for abnormalities such as irregular rhythms (arrhythmias), conduction delays, signs of heart attacks, and structural abnormalities.
Diagnosis: EKGs are used in the diagnosis and management of various heart conditions, including:
Arrhythmias: Irregular heart rhythms such as atrial fibrillation, ventricular tachycardia, or bradycardia.
Coronary artery disease: Signs of reduced blood flow to the heart muscle due to blocked or narrowed arteries.
Heart attacks (myocardial infarctions): Abnormal patterns on the EKG may indicate damage to the heart muscle.
Cardiomyopathy: Enlargement or thickening of the heart muscle.
Electrolyte imbalances: Abnormal levels of potassium, calcium, or other electrolytes can affect the heart's electrical activity.
Monitoring: In addition to diagnosing heart conditions, EKGs are also used for continuous monitoring of patients in hospital settings, especially those at risk for arrhythmias or heart attacks.
Overall, EKGs are valuable tools in cardiology for diagnosing and monitoring a wide range of heart conditions. However, they are just one part of the diagnostic process, and results should be interpreted in conjunction with other clinical findings and tests.
RescueMD is pleased to offer EKG testing in office to our patients located in Allen, Frisco, Plano, Mckinney, Dallas and the surround areas.