Electrocardiograms
What is an ECG/EKG?
An electrocardiogram is a simple, painless test that records the electrical activity of your heart. This test measures the rate and regularity of your heartbeat, as well as the size and position of your heart chambers. It also helps to identify any damage or abnormalities in your heart’s structure and function.
How is an ECG Performed?
To perform an ECG, small electrodes are placed on your chest, arms, and legs. These electrodes are connected to a machine that records the electrical signals produced by your heart. The test only takes a few minutes and is completely non-invasive.
It produces a graph that shows the heart’s activity in several waves. The height, length and frequency of the waves show important information, such as:
- Heart Rate: The number of waves per minute
- Heart Rhythm: The distance between the waves
- Heart Function: The shape of the waves shows electrical impulses, the heart’s size and how well the various parts of the heart work together
- Heart Damage: The consistency of the waves can show if there is damage in the heart
What is an ECG Used for?
Reason for the Procedure
- to identify irregular heartbeats, or arrhythmias
- to assess how well an implanted pacemaker is functioning
- to determine the cause of chest pain
- to evaluate other signs and symptoms which may be heart-related, such as fatigue, shortness of breath, dizziness, or fainting
- to determine the status of the heart prior to procedures such as surgery and/or after treatment for conditions such as a heart attack (myocardial infarction or MI), endocarditis (inflammation or infection of one or more of the heart valves), or after procedures such as heart surgery or cardiac catheterization
- to determine the effectiveness of certain heart medications
- to obtain a baseline tracing of the heart's function during a physical examination that may be used as a comparison with future ECGs, to determine if any changes have occurred
Benefits of an ECG
By providing a visual representation of your heart’s electrical activity, an ECG allows healthcare professionals to assess your overall heart health. It can help identify potential issues early on, allowing for prompt treatment and management of any underlying conditions. Regular ECG screenings are especially important for individuals with a family history of heart disease or those who have risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or smoking.
At Total Point Prescott Medical, we offer ECG testing as part of our comprehensive medical care services. Our team of experienced healthcare professionals will ensure that your ECG is performed accurately and interpret the results to provide you with a clear understanding of your heart’s health.
Get in Touch
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3124 Willow Creek Road
Prescott, AZ 86301 - Phone: (928) 445-7085
- Fax: (928) 433-0730
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