Definition

An electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) measures the electrical activity of your heart. The heart generates an electrical signal, which flows out from your heart through your body. Small electrical sensors, called electrodes, are put on your skin to sense the electricity that began in your heart. The electrical activity is then turned into a graph. This can give doctors an idea of whether your heart is beating normally.

ECG/EKG Waves

Copyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.

Reasons for Test

An ECG is used to:

• Diagnose heart attacks and rhythm problems
• Offer clues about other heart conditions and conditions not primarily related to the heart
• Detect conditions that alter the body’s balance of electrolytes, such as potassium and magnesium
• Detect other problems, such as overdoses of certain drugs

Symptoms that may prompt an ECG include:

• Chest discomfort or pain
• Shortness of breath
• Palpitations
• Anxiety
• Weakness
• Nausea or the feeling that you have to vomit
• History of fainting

An ECG may also be obtained if you:

• Are about to have surgery with general anesthesia
• Are in occupations that stress the heart or where public safety is a concern
• Are an older adult or have diabetes
• Already have heart disease
• Have had a heart-related procedure, such as getting a pacemaker

Possible Complications

There are no major complications associated with this test.

What to Expect

Call Your Doctor

Call your doctor if you have heart-related symptoms, such as chest pain or trouble breathing.

If you think you have an emergency, call for medical help right away.