An electrocardiogram, also known as EKG or ECG, is a simple and painless test that checks your heart's rhythm and electrical activity. Sensors placed on the skin detect the electrical signals produced by the heart each time it beats. A machine records these signals, which are then examined by a doctor to see if they are unusual. An ECG may be ordered by a cardiologist (Heart specialist) or any doctor who suspects you have a cardiac problem, including your primary care provider.

An ECG is often used in conjunction with other tests to diagnose and monitor heart conditions. It can be used to evaluate symptoms such as chest pain, palpitations, rapid pulse, dizziness, lightheadedness, and shortness of breath, all of which could be signs of a heart problem. Even if you have no symptoms, your health care provider may recommend an electrocardiogram as a screening test if you have a family history of heart disease. If your symptoms come and go, an ECG recording may not be enough to detect them.

An ECG can be used to detect:

• Arrhythmias: Irregular heartbeats that occur when the heart beats too slowly or too fast
• Coronary heart disease: When a buildup of fatty substances restricts or interrupts the blood supply to the heart.
• Heart attacks: When the heart's blood supply is unexpectedly interrupted or blocked
• Cardiomyopathy: The enlargement or thickening of the heart walls.

A series of ECGs can be obtained over time to monitor a person who has been diagnosed with a heart problem or who is receiving medications that may affect the heart.

A typical Home ECG requires no special preparation. Any medications or supplements you're taking should be reported to your doctor as these factors often influence the results of an ECG.

An ECG can be performed in a number of different ways. The test typically involves placing a number (up to 12) of small, sticky sensors known as electrodes on your arms, legs, and chest. Electrodes are sticky patches that connect to a monitor through wires. You'll normally need to remove your upper clothing before the electrodes are attached, and your chest may need to be shaved or cleaned. You may be given a gown to wear once the electrodes are in place. You are allowed to breathe during the exam, but you must remain completely still. Make sure you're warm and comfortable before lying down. Moving, shivering, or talking may interfere with the test results. An ECG takes a few minutes to complete.

Your heart rhythm and electrical activity will normally be presented as a graph on an ECG recording machine, either electronically or on paper. The information about your heart will be stored electronically by the ECG machine, and a doctor will be able to access it once the test is over. It's possible that you won't be able to obtain the results of your ECG right away. A professional doctor may need to review the recordings to see whether there are any indicators of an underlying problem. Other tests may be required before determining whether or not there is a problem.

The following information can be obtained from ECG results:

Heart rate:The pulse is usually checked to determine heart rate. If your pulse is difficult to feel, or if it is too fast or irregular to count precisely, an ECG may be helpful. An ECG can detect a high heart rate (tachycardia) or a slow heart rate (bradycardia).

Heart Attack:An ECG can reveal signs of a previous or present heart attack.

Heart Rhythm: An ECG taken while experiencing symptoms can help your doctor determine if the chest pain is caused by a reduction in blood flow to the heart.

Blood Supply:The term "transvaginal" refers to an ultrasound that is performed through the vagina. You'll be asked to lie on your back or side with your legs raised to your chest during the procedure. After that, a small ultrasound probe with a sterile cover is gently inserted into the vagina, and images are transmitted to a monitor. Internal examinations can be uncomfortable, but they usually aren't painful and don't take long.

Structural Changes:An ECG can reveal information regarding an enlarged heart, heart defects, and other cardiac problems.

An ECG is a painless, quick, and safe test. The electrodes used in the test do not produce electricity. Thus, there is no risk of electrical shock during the test. The electrodes record only the electrical activity of the heart. When the electrodes are removed from your skin, they may cause some discomfort, and some people may get a mild rash where the electrodes were placed.

An exercise or stress ECG is done in a controlled environment. The person performing the test will monitor closely and may stop the test if you develop any symptoms or feel uncomfortable.