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    An Electrocardiogram

    Uploaded by

    shahid new
    ECG

    Copyright:

    © All Rights Reserved
    Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online from Scribd

    An Electrocardiogram

    Uploaded by

    shahid new
    3 views2 pages
    ECG

    Original Title

    An electrocardiogram

    Copyright

    © © All Rights Reserved

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    DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online from Scribd

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    ECG

    Copyright:

    © All Rights Reserved
    Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online from Scribd
    Download as docx, pdf, or txt
    3 views2 pages

    An Electrocardiogram

    Uploaded by

    shahid new
    ECG

    Copyright:

    © All Rights Reserved
    Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online from Scribd
    Download as docx, pdf, or txt
    of 2

    An electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) is a diagnostic test that measures the

    electrical activity of the heart. It is a simple, quick, and painless procedure


    that records the heart's rhythm and rate, providing crucial information
    about its health.

    How ECG Works


    During an ECG, small adhesive patches called electrodes are attached to
    the skin on the chest, arms, and legs. These electrodes detect the
    electrical impulses generated by the heart as it beats. The electrical
    signals are transmitted to an ECG machine, which displays them as waves
    on a monitor or prints them out. No electrical current is sent into the body
    during this test.

    Purpose of an ECG
    Healthcare providers may recommend an ECG for several reasons,
    including:
     Diagnosing heart conditions: It can help identify irregular heartbeats
    (arrhythmias), previous heart attacks, or issues related to blood flow to
    the heart muscle.
     Monitoring heart health: ECGs are used to assess the effectiveness of
    heart medications or treatments, and to evaluate the heart's condition
    before surgeries.
     Investigating symptoms: Patients experiencing chest pain, shortness of
    breath, dizziness, or fatigue may undergo an ECG to determine the
    underlying cause of these symptoms.

    Types of ECG Tests


    There are several types of ECG tests, including:
     Resting ECG: Conducted while the patient is lying down and at rest.
     Exercise ECG (Stress Test): Performed while the patient exercises,
    typically on a treadmill, to monitor how the heart responds to physical
    stress.
     Holter Monitor: A portable ECG device worn for 24 hours or more to
    capture the heart's activity over an extended period.

    Preparation and Procedure


    Preparation for an ECG is minimal. Patients are usually advised to wear
    loose clothing and avoid applying lotions or oils on their skin before the
    test. During the procedure, patients lie down while electrodes are placed
    on their skin. They are instructed to remain still and calm to ensure
    accurate readings. The test typically lasts about 10 minutes.

    Results and Follow-Up


    Results from an ECG can often be available on the same day, although it
    may take longer depending on the complexity of the test. Healthcare
    professionals analyze the ECG waves to identify any abnormalities, which
    can indicate various heart conditions. Follow-up appointments may be
    necessary to discuss the results and any further testing required.Overall,
    an ECG is a valuable tool in cardiology, providing essential insights into
    heart health and function.

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