An electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) is a non-invasive test that records the electrical activity of the heart over time. It provides valuable insights into heart health, helping to detect irregularities in rhythm, structure, and function.

Applications

• Heart Rhythm Analysis: Identifies arrhythmias such as atrial fibrillation or tachycardia.
• Heart Attack Detection: Recognizes signs of myocardial infarction or ischemia.
• Structural Abnormalities: Evaluates heart size and muscle thickness.
• Monitoring: Tracks the effectiveness of treatments or the impact of medications on heart function.

Procedure

During an ECG, electrodes are placed on the chest, arms, and legs to detect electrical signals from the heart. These signals are recorded as waves on a graph, showing the heart’s activity in detail. The test is quick, painless, and typically lasts only a few minutes.

Benefits

• Non-Invasive: Simple and risk-free procedure.
• Fast and Efficient: Provides immediate results for rapid diagnosis.
• Cost-Effective: Widely accessible and affordable.
• Versatile: Useful for routine screenings, emergency care, and long-term monitoring.

Limitations

While an ECG is an essential diagnostic tool, it captures heart activity only at the time of the test and may require follow-up testing, such as Holter monitoring or echocardiography, for comprehensive evaluation.