Electrocardiogram
How an ECG is carried out
There are several different ways an ECG can be carried out. Generally, the test involves attaching a number of small, sticky sensors called electrodes to your arms, legs and chest. These are connected by wires to an ECG recording machine.
You don't need to do anything special to prepare for the test. You can eat and drink as normal beforehand.
Before the electrodes are attached, you'll usually need to remove your upper clothing, and sometimes your chest may need to be shaved or cleaned. Once the electrodes are in place, you may be offered a hospital gown to cover yourself.
The test itself will normally only last a few minutes, and you can usually go home soon afterwards or return to the ward if you're already staying in hospital.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018
Introduction
An electrocardiogram (ECG) is a simple test that can be used to check your heart's rhythm and electrical activity. Sensors attached to the skin are used to detect the electrical signals produced by your heart each time it beats. These signals are recorded by a machine and are looked at by a doctor to see if they're unusual.
When an ECG is used
An ECG is often used alongside other tests to help diagnose and monitor conditions affecting the heart. It can be used to investigate symptoms of a possible heart problem, such as (palpitations),
How an ECG is carried out
There are several different ways an ECG can be carried out. Generally, the test involves attaching a number of small, sticky sensors called electrodes to your arms, legs and chest. These are
Types of ECG
There are three main types of ECG: a resting ECG – carried out while you're lying down in a comfortable position a stress or exercise ECG – carried out while you're usin
Getting your results
An ECG recording machine will usually show your heart rhythm and electrical activity as a graph displayed electronically or printed on to paper. For an ambulatory ECG, the ECG machine will store the i
Are there any risks or side effects?
An ECG is a quick, safe and painless test. No electricity is put into your body while it's carried out. There may be some slight discomfort when the electrodes are removed from your skin&nbs
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