Overview
An ECG (also called EKG) records the tiny electrical signals that make your heart beat. It is the simplest and fastest heart test, and often the first one your cardiologist will ask for.
It can show an ongoing or old heart attack, irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias), thickened heart muscle and the effect of some medicines or salt imbalances on the heart.
Who may need it
- Chest pain, breathlessness, palpitations or giddiness
- Routine heart check-up, especially with diabetes, high BP or a family history of heart disease
- Before surgery, or to monitor heart medicines
What to expect
- You lie down comfortably and small sticky electrodes are placed on your chest, arms and legs.
- The machine records for a few seconds — just lie still and breathe normally.
- Electrodes are removed. There is no electricity passed into your body and no pain.
Recovery & aftercare
- No preparation or recovery time. You can go back to normal activities immediately.
Medically reviewed by Dr. G.V. Senthilnathan, MBBS, MD (General Medicine), DM (Cardiology). This page is general information; your treatment plan will be tailored to your own reports and health.