WHAT IS AN ECG ?

Electrocardiogram, popularly known as 'ECG' or 'EKG' is an electrical test that investigates the activity of your heart by attaching electrodes to your skin. A graph-like diagram you receive at the end of the test shows the electrical activity of the heart. An ECG test can be done as part of a routine physical exam. It may be repeated any time if there are questions about the working of your heart.

WHY DO YOU HAVE TO UNDERGO ECG ?

ECG helps the doctor to determine the status or the activity of your heart. There are numerous cases where you have to undergo an ECG test:

• Scheduled for surgery.
• Severe chest pain.
• Had cardiovascular diseases in past.
• Measuring the heart rate.
• Traces of limbs in and around your heart.
• To understand the position of your heart chambers
• You can undergo an ECG while you perform your routine check-up in order to make sure that your heart is safe and sound.

HOW IS THE ECG PROCESS PERFORMED?

• Once you are at the ECG center, the health care provider will provide you with a gown to change
• In the second step, he/she will ask you to lie down and will attach small patches (electrodes) to your arms, legs and six areas on your chest. You might have to wax some areas of your skin for the patch to stick properly
• For the next step, you just have to lie still or sometimes hold your breath for a minute or two for the machine to detect your heart activity. A slight shiver or moment can make a big difference in the final results
• In the final step, the doctor will have a look at your electrocardiogram and inform you how the test went for you..