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Electrocardiogram – How & Why It Is Performed, How to Prepare, & Results

Electrocardiogram – How & Why It Is Performed, How to Prepare, & Results

Why Is EKG Performed?

What If The EKG Results Are Abnormal?

Consult Dr. Arun Hari In Case You Have Abnormal EKG findings!

An electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG) is a test that measures the electrical activity of your heart to determine any heart problems that you may be having. The test is easy to do where you just need to lie down so that EKG sensors or electrodes can be placed, which are connected to an Electrocardiogram machine, on your chest, arms, and legs in order to measure the electrical activity. The EKG machine then converts the EKG signals received from your heart into a graph called electrocardiograph which represents these signals in the form of wavy lines on a running sheet of paper. You will be asked to remain still by your doctor during the EKG recording as any body movement can impact the accuracy of readings. 

Why Is EKG Performed?

This test is usually done as part of a routine physical exam before any surgery. It may also be done to check your heart’s electrical activity if you have symptoms such as chest pain or a fast or irregular heartbeat. This will also help determine the size and position of the chambers of your heart. Well! It’s generally the 1st test that most doctors recommend for any symptoms that might be related to your abnormal heart function. Your care provider may order to run an Electrocardiogram on you for the following reasons:

What If The EKG Results Are Abnormal?

There are a variety of abnormal EKG results that can occur. Some abnormal EKG results may be benign, while others may be indicative of a more serious heart condition. Some common abnormal EKG results include:

  • ST segment elevation: You may see this in a variety of conditions. Some of these conditions are myocardial infarction (heart attack), pericarditis, & pulmonary embolism.
  • ST segment depression: Usually, you may see this in conditions like myocardial infarction, ischemia, & heart failure.
  • T wave abnormalities: You might see T wave abnormalities in a variety of conditions. These conditions are myocardial infarction, pericarditis, & heart failure.
  • QT interval prolongation: Mostly, you might see this in conditions such as myocardial infarction and heart failure.
  • P wave abnormalities: You see P wave abnormalities in a variety of conditions, including atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, and heart block.

Consult Dr. Arun Hari In Case You Have Abnormal EKG findings!

Heart checkups are important! If you have any abnormal EKG results, it’s important to follow up with an experienced cardiologist such as Dr. Arun Hari to determine the exact cause and nature of your heart disease. He may recommend further testing for you. The tests may include a stress test or echocardiogram. These tests would determine the specific cause of your abnormal EKG findings. He is also a go-to specialist for adopting the best treatment modalities available. This can help your heart to remain healthy and disease free.