An electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) is a test that records the electrical activity of the heart over a period of time. It’s a crucial tool in diagnosing various heart conditions. Here’s a brief overview:
Purpose
- Diagnosing Heart Conditions: Identifies arrhythmias, heart attacks, and other cardiac issues.
- Monitoring Heart Health: Used for patients with known heart disease or those at risk.
- Preoperative Assessment: Evaluates heart function before surgery.
How It Works
- Electrodes: Small stickers (electrodes) are placed on the skin in specific locations to detect electrical impulses.
- Recording: The electrical activity is recorded on graph paper or displayed digitally, showing peaks and troughs corresponding to heartbeats.
Components of an ECG
- P Wave: Atrial depolarization (contraction).
- QRS Complex: Ventricular depolarization (contraction).
- T Wave: Ventricular repolarization (relaxation).
Interpretation
- Normal Rhythm: Indicates a healthy heart.
- Arrhythmias: Irregular rhythms may signal issues.
- Ischemia: Changes can indicate reduced blood flow to the heart.
Risks and Considerations
- Non-invasive: Generally very safe, with minimal risks.
- Preparation: Patients may need to avoid certain activities before the test.
Limitations
- Momentary Snapshot: Captures activity at a single point in time; may not detect intermittent problems.
- Additional Testing: Sometimes, further testing (like echocardiograms or stress tests) is needed for a comprehensive evaluation.