Electrocardiogram (ECG)

An ECG records the electrical activity that your heart creates.

An ECG is a non-invasive, painless test using dots placed on the skin that records the electrical activity that your heart creates. It helps with diagnosing any problems with your heart function and electrical activity. An ECG can tell your doctor your heart rhythm, heart muscle blood flow, heart chamber size and thickness.

ECGs can detect some genetic cardiac conditions. ECGs are an important diagnostic tool for your doctor to use.

Preparation

Prior to the test, avoid skin products such as lotions that may make the electrodes not adhere to the skin.

How is it done?

You will be asked to lie down on the examination couch in the clinic with your shirt off. Excessive chest hair may be shaved in some areas to help the electrodes stick.

Once the electrodes are connected to the ECG machine, an electrical trace is produced and saved. The results are then sent to the Doctor for interpretation and the next steps will be discussed based on the results and your symptoms.

Duration

3-5 minutes.

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