ECG stands for "Electrocardiogram," which is a medical test that records the electrical activity of the heart over a period of time. It is a commonly used diagnostic tool to assess the heart's electrical conduction system and is often used to diagnose various heart conditions.
During an ECG, electrodes (small, adhesive patches) are placed on the skin of the patient in specific locations, typically on the chest, arms, and legs. These electrodes are connected to an ECG machine, which records the electrical impulses generated by the heart as it beats. The recorded electrical activity is then displayed as a series of waveforms on a graph, known as an electrocardiogram.
Interpreting an ECG requires expertise, and healthcare professionals, such as cardiologists, are trained to analyze the results. They look for specific patterns and changes in the ECG tracings to make a diagnosis or assess the overall health of the heart. ECGs are commonly used in routine check-ups, as well as in emergency situations when a patient is experiencing chest pain, shortness of breath, palpitations, or other symptoms that may be related to heart problems.
