What is an ECG?
ECG commonly known as an electrocardiogram is an important diagnostic tool in cardiology. This test provides valuable insights into the electrical activity of the heart. This non-invasive test is widely used to assess cardiac health and detect irregularities.
An electrocardiogram test records the electrical impulses generated by the heart during each heartbeat. Electrodes attached to the skin capture these signals and produce a visual representation.
Some common ECG findings:
- Arrhythmias: Irregular heart rhythms, like atrial fibrillation or bradycardia.
- Ischemia: Indicates inadequate blood supply to the heart muscle, often seen as ST-segment changes.
- Infarction: Evidenced by abnormal Q waves, suggesting a past heart attack.
- Conduction Disorders: Problems with the heart’s electrical pathways, such as bundle branch blocks.
Types of ECG Tests
There are several types of electrocardiogram tests, including:
- Resting ECG: This is the standard ECG test performed at rest to assess the heart’s electrical activity. It helps detect irregularities in heart rhythm and signs of ischemia.
- Holter Monitor: A portable device is worn for 24 to 48 hours, continuously recording the heart’s activity. Useful for capturing irregularities that may not be evident during a short-term ECG.
- Exercise Stress Test/Stress Test: Measures the heart’s response to physical stress, helping identify coronary artery disease. Electrodes are placed on the chest while the patient exercises on a treadmill.
Electrocardiograms (ECG) play a pivotal role in cardiovascular health assessment. Understanding the basics of ECG interpretation empowers both healthcare professionals and patients in managing heart conditions. As technology evolves, so does the potential for more accurate and accessible cardiac monitoring, contributing to improved overall heart health.
Why ECG Test?
ECGs are conducted for various reasons, including:
- ECG helps diagnose and assess various heart conditions, including ischemic heart disease, arrhythmias, conduction disorders, and more.
- ECG is used for continuous monitoring in hospitals to track changes in heart rhythm and detect any abnormalities.
- Physicians may include ECG as part of routine health check-ups to evaluate overall cardiac health, especially in patients with risk factors or a family history of heart disease.
- When a patient experiences chest pain or discomfort, an ECG is often conducted to assess for signs of a heart attack or other cardiac issues.
- ECG monitor the effects of medications on the heart, ensuring they do not cause adverse reactions or irregularities in the heart rhythm.
- Before certain surgeries, especially those involving anesthesia, an ECG may be performed to evaluate the patient’s heart function and identify any potential risks.
- The ECG test in Delhi is part of the screening process for conditions like atrial fibrillation, a common heart rhythm disorder.
- For individuals with intermittent symptoms, such as palpitations or dizziness, wearing a Holter monitor with continuous ECG recording helps capture irregularities that may not be evident during a standard ECG.
ECG Test Procedure & Interpreting ECG Results
During the procedure, a patient typically lies down while electrodes are strategically placed on the arms, chest, and legs. These electrodes detect electrical signals and transmit them to the ECG machine, where they are recorded as waves on paper or displayed digitally.
It is crucial to understand the components of an ECG test in Delhi for accurate interpretation. The P wave represents atrial depolarization, the ORS complex signifies ventricular depolarization, and the T wave reflects ventricular repolarization. Abnormalities in these waves can indicate various heart conditions.
Final Note
At Ayushman Diagnostic and Imaging Centre, your heart health is our priority. Our state-of-the-art facilities and experienced healthcare professionals ensure accurate and timely ECG assessments. You will get an affordable ECG test in Dwarka at our center. Because we believe in the power of preventive care and the role ECGs play in early detection. Trust us to provide comprehensive insights into your cardiac well-being. Your heart, our commitment – because a healthier heart leads to a healthier you.