ECG is used to record on graph paper the electrical activity of the heart. The picture is drawn by a computer from information supplied by the electrodes. Learn more
ECG is a device used to record on graph paper the electrical activity of the heart. The picture is drawn by a computer from information supplied by the electrodes.
Your doctor uses the ECG to:
Assess your heart rhythm
Diagnose poor blood flow to the heart muscle (ischemia)
Diagnose a heart attack
Diagnose abnormalities of your heart, such as heart chamber enlargement and abnormal electrical conduction
To prepare
Avoid oily or greasy skin creams and lotions the day of the test - they interfere with the electrode-skin contact
Avoid full-length hosiery, as electrodes need to be placed directly on the legs
Wear a shirt that can be easily removed to place the leads on the chest
What to expect
During a resting ECG, a technician will attach ten electrodes with adhesive pads to the skin of your chest, arms and legs. Men may have chest hair shaved to allow a better connection. You will lie flat while the computer creates a picture, on graph paper, of the electrical impulses traveling through your heart.
It takes about 10 minutes to attach the electrodes and complete the test, but the actual recording takes only a few seconds.
Your ECG patterns will be kept on file for comparison with future ECG recordings.
