EKG

The electrocardiogram of EKG or ECG is one of the most basic tests of our hearts. The EKG is done while we lie on our back. Electrodes, which record electrical activity from the skin surface, are placed on our arms, legs, and chest to record the electrical current generated by the heartbeat. The test does not cause pain and takes about two minutes to perform.

An EKG tells your doctor much about the heart. The EKG can change and so are often repeated in patients with heart disease. The EKG can help diagnose a heart attack or an arrhythmia. The function of the hearts electrical system can also be evaluated using the EKG. An EKG is done with every treadmill stress test. It is often performed in the emergency room to help diagnose an Acute Myocardial Infarction and recently paramedics have been trained to do an EKG before transporting a heart attack patient.

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