When Is an EKG Used?

An electrocardiogram, likewise known as an ECG or EKG is a test that’s capable of recording your heart’s electrical activity via small electrode patches that are placed on the skin of the chest, legs, and arms. With this painless, safe, and fast test, your cardiologist Dr. Daljit Muttiana of Cardiovascular Institute can:

• Check the rhythm of your heart
• Diagnose heart attacks
• Check if you have ischemia or poor blood flow to the heart
• Detect if you have significant electrolyte irregularities like low or high calcium or high potassium
• See if there are any abnormalities in your heart, like a thickened heart muscle

What to Expect During a Standard EKG Test

A technician or nurse will attach electrodes on strategic places on your chest, legs, and arms. You might need to shave off your chest hair, if you’re male, to ensure a clearer connection. You’ll need to lie flat during the EKG test while a computer generates an image of all the electrical impulses moving through your heart. Basically, this is known as resting EKG and can be also used for checking the heart while exercising.

The test typically takes approximately 10 minutes, including the electrode installation, but the recording actually takes several seconds. Your cardiologist will keep the results of your EKG on file here in our Tomball, TX, office for future comparisons.

Different Kinds of EKG Tests

Aside from the standard EKG test described above, your cardiologist might likewise recommend other types of EKG tests such as:

• Signal-Averaged EKG: This is used for checking to see if you have a high risk of developing heart arrhythmia or irregular heartbeat, which could result in cardiac arrest.
• Event Monitor: This portable EKG device may be recommended by your cardiologist if your symptoms come and go sporadically. With the push of a button, the device will be able to record and store all the results amounting to several minutes. Depending on your cardiologist’s instructions, you might have to wear the device for weeks or several months.
• Holter Monitor: This is also a portable EKG device capable of checking the heart’s electrical impulses for a day or two, all throughout the day. Your cardiologist may recommend this test if he thinks you have palpitations, an irregular heart rhythm, or have inadequate blood flow to the heart. Once installed, you’ll be able to go about your daily tasks but you can’t shower. Your cardiologist will tell you to record the things you did that day and symptoms, if any, you noticed.

For More Information About EKG Tests, Give Us a Call

Dial (281) 357-5700 to schedule an evaluation with our cardiologist Dr. Daljit Muttiana at Cardiovascular Institute in Tomball, TX.