What Is the ECG Machine?
Electrocardiogram (also called EKG or ECG) machines record electrical activity in the heart. They are instrumental in diagnosing many kinds of common heart issues and monitoring heart health.
When to Use an EKG Machine
A doctor may want to perform an electrocardiogram when the patient has experienced any symptoms indicating a possible heart problem such as:
• Heart palpitations
• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Confusion
• Dizziness
• Lightheadedness
• Weakness/fatigue
• Elevated pulse
What Does It Detect?
An electrocardiogram provides medical professionals with information that can reveal a range of conditions. With an ECG machine, you can detect the presence of arrhythmias, narrowed or blocked arteries (coronary artery disease), or evidence of a previous heart attack. You can also use it to follow up on the efficacy of current treatments, including how well pacemakers are functioning.
How Does an ECG Work?
With most standard ECG Machine, electrodes must attach to the patient’s chest and limbs. These electrodes record the electricity in the heart and feed the information to a computer. A monitor often displays the results.
What Are the Risks?
An electrocardiogram is a safe, painless, non-invasive procedure. At most, a patient may experience minor discomfort or redness from the electrodes’ removal, similar to removing bandages. The electrodes merely record activity, they do not produce electricity, so there is no risk of electrical shock.
Where Are ECGs Performed?
ECGs may take place at a doctor’s office, clinic, hospital, or in an ambulance. Portable versions of the technology exist that can monitor heart activity on a remote or continuous basis. A doctor, EMT, nurse, or technician typically administers the test.
