The full form of ECG is Electrocardiogram. It is a test that records the electrical activity of your heart, including the rate and rhythm. An ECG is a quick and painless test that uses electrodes placed on the chest and limbs to measure the electrical signals produced by the heart. This information is then displayed as a graph, which doctors can use to identify any problems with the heart's rhythm or structure.
Here's how an ECG works:
- Electrical impulses: Your heart beats because of electrical impulses that travel through the heart muscle.
- Electrodes: The electrodes on your chest and limbs detect these electrical impulses.
- Graph: The information from the electrodes is then displayed on a graph, which shows the heart's electrical activity over time.
- Diagnosis: Doctors can analyze the ECG graph to identify any abnormalities in the heart's rhythm, structure, or function.
Some common uses of an ECG include:
- Diagnosing heart attacks
- Detecting arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats)
- Monitoring the effectiveness of heart medication
- Assessing the health of the heart before surgery
Note: An ECG is not a substitute for a thorough medical evaluation. If you have any concerns about your heart health, consult a doctor.
