Why take an ECG?
An ECG is a crucial examination in cardiology (heart medicine), acting as a doctor's eye into the electrical activity of the heart, providing important insights into the heart's overall health. One of the primary reasons for performing an ECG examination is to identify any irregular heart rhythms, also known as arrhythmias. These can range from harmless extra beats to serious conditions such as atrial fibrillation, which can increase the risk of blood clots and heart failure.
In addition, it is used to detect if there is reduced blood flow to the heart muscles, a condition often associated with coronary artery disease. By detecting signs of reduced blood supply early, doctors can take the necessary measures to prevent further complications, including heart attacks.
The ECG helps doctors to:
- Identify irregular heart rhythms.
- Detect reduced blood flow to
the heart muscle. - Evaluate the function of the heart's chambers.
- Investigate the effect of heart medication or confirm if implants such as pacemakers are working properly.
The ECG test is also central to evaluating the function of the heart's chambers. It can help identify structural abnormalities and functional problems such as enlarged chambers or heart failure. The heart's chambers must work in a synchronized rhythm to ensure optimal blood circulation in the body, and an ECG can show if there are any delays or blockages in the transmission of electrical impulses between the chambers.
Furthermore, the ECG is an indispensable tool in monitoring the effect of heart medication or to confirm whether implants (implanted foreign bodies) such as pacemakers are working properly. Pacemakers are small devices implanted in the chest to regulate heart rhythm. By monitoring the way the pacemaker interacts with the heart's electrical system, doctors can adjust settings or identify potential problems before they become serious. It also provides valuable information about the effectiveness of different medications so the treatment plan can be adjusted as needed.
Overall, the ECG is a central part of modern cardiology assessment, offering doctors a detailed view of the heart's electrical function, allowing a wide range of heart conditions to be diagnosed, treated and managed more effectively.
Facts and figures
- ECG, heart diagram and electrocardiogram are different terms for the same test
- In the case of a blood clot in the heart, there are often typical changes in the echo, which the doctor can immediately act on
- In angina pectoris, the ECG is usually normal at rest, but changes can be seen if you exert yourself (exercise ECG)
How is an ECG test performed?
See how an ECG test is performed.
Here's a brief description of what to expect when you have an ECG test
Arrival
When you arrive, you will be welcomed and asked to take a seat in the waiting room until it's your turn.
Preparation
When it's time, you will be called into an examination room. We will ask for your name and CPR number to ensure correct identity. Here we will ask you to remove your outer clothing so we can easily place the electrodes on your skin. We understand if you're a little nervous, especially if it's your first time, but rest assured that the procedure is painless.
On Briksen
You will now be asked to lie down on a comfortable couch. The most important thing here is to relax and lie as still as possible.
Electrodes
We will now place small electrodes on your chest, arms and legs. They may feel a little cold, but it won't hurt. The electrodes are attached with a mild, sticky gel or tape.
Test Start
The ECG machine will now start recording your heart's electrical activity. You may hear a faint buzz from the machine and see the waveforms moving on a screen.
During the test
You won't feel anything during the test itself. All you need to do is lie still and relax. We're here to make sure everything goes as it should.
After the Test
When the test is complete after 5-10 minutes, we will remove the electrodes and you can get dressed again.
Results and Next Steps
Depending on why you're having the test done, you'll either get the results right away or you'll be informed of them shortly afterwards. We'll make sure to explain the results to you and talk about any next steps in terms of further investigation or treatment.
Are there any risks?
Although the ECG test itself is safe and non-invasive, it can provide important information that leads to other tests or procedures that may have risks. It's important to talk to your doctor about any concerns and ensure you understand the purpose and results of your ECG test.
An ECG test is one of the most commonly used diagnostic procedures in cardiology, and for good reason:
Non-invasive
The ECG is a superficial procedure, meaning there is no penetration into the body. This eliminates the risk of infection, bleeding or damage to tissues and organs.
No pain and discomfort
You will not experience any pain or discomfort during the ECG test as the electrodes attached to the skin only detect electrical impulses and do not send any current to the body.
Get an ECG
Your heart deserves the best attention, and we're here to make sure you get it. If you have any questions about the ECG test or if you'd like to know more about your heart health in general, we're here to help.
Frequently asked questions about ECG
- Heart rhythm: Whether the heart beats regularly or irregularly.
- Heart rate: The number of heartbeats per minute.
- Cardiac arrhythmias: Irregular heart rhythms, such as atrial fibrillation or ventricular fibrillation.
- Signs of reduced blood flow: This may indicate a previous or recent heart attack.
- Location of damage: Whether specific parts of the heart are damaged.
- Cause of chest pain: Can help determine if the pain is due to a heart problem.
- Functioning of a pacemaker: Whether a pacemaker is functioning properly.
- Electrolyte imbalances: As elevated potassium in the blood.
- Signs of other diseases: Such as an enlarged heart chamber.
An ECG examination takes between 5 and 10 minutes in total. Although the preparation of placing the electrodes can take a few minutes, the actual recording of the heart's electrical activity only lasts around 1 minute. Afterwards, a short time is spent removing the electrodes and getting dressed again.
No, an ECG is a painless procedure. You will feel a slight pressure when the electrodes are applied, but there is no pain associated with the test itself.
There is generally no special preparation needed prior to an ECG test. However, it is recommended to wear loose-fitting clothing to make it easy to place the electrodes. It is also important to inform your doctor about any medications you are taking.