An electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG) is a non-invasive medical test that records the heart’s electrical activity. This diagnostic tool translates electrical signals into wavy lines, helping healthcare providers assess heart function. Its primary purpose is to detect and monitor various heart conditions, such as abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias), heart damage, or issues with blood flow to the heart muscle. An EKG offers a quick and painless way to gain insights into heart health without sending electricity into the body.
Preparing for Your EKG
Proper preparation helps ensure clear and accurate EKG results. Avoid applying oily or greasy skin creams, lotions, or talcum powder to your chest, arms, and legs on the day of the test, as these can hinder electrode contact. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that can be easily removed or adjusted for electrode placement. Avoid full-length hosiery if leg electrodes are needed.
Inform the technician about any medications, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements, as some can affect heart electrical activity and influence EKG results. Avoid heavy meals, caffeine, and nicotine for a few hours before the test, as these can temporarily alter your heart rate. If you have significant chest hair, the technician may need to shave small areas for proper electrode adhesion; you can inquire about doing this yourself beforehand.
The EKG Procedure: What to Expect
Upon arrival for your EKG, you will be asked to remove any jewelry or metallic objects that might interfere with the procedure and to change into a gown. You will then lie flat on an exam table. The technician will clean areas on your chest, arms, and legs where electrodes will be placed, and if necessary, shave small patches of hair to ensure good skin contact.
Approximately 10 to 12 small, sticky electrode patches will be attached to specific locations on your chest, arms, and legs. These electrodes are connected by wires, called leads, to the EKG machine. The machine records the electrical signals generated by your heart, displaying them as wavy lines. The actual recording of heart activity is brief, lasting about 10 seconds, though the entire setup process can take around 10 minutes. During the recording, it is important to lie still and avoid talking, as movement, shivering, or speech can distort the results.
Factors Affecting EKG Accuracy
Several factors can interfere with an EKG reading, potentially leading to inaccurate results. Patient movement during the test, even slight shivering, can create “noise” or distortions in the electrical signals, making interpretation difficult. Anxiety or stress can also temporarily alter heart rhythm, which may affect the reading.
Poor electrode contact is another common issue, often due to body hair, sweat, or the presence of lotions and oils on the skin. Improper placement of electrodes on the body can also lead to significant errors in interpretation. Electrical interference from other devices in the room or even a mobile phone can also impair EKG quality. Certain medical conditions or medications might temporarily change heart rhythms, which could be misinterpreted if the clinical context is not considered.
What Happens After Your EKG?
Once the EKG recording is complete, the technician will disconnect the lead wires and remove the sticky electrode patches from your skin. You may experience some mild discomfort, similar to removing a bandage, and occasionally a slight rash where the patches were placed, which typically resolves on its own. Unless your doctor provides different instructions, you can usually resume your normal activities immediately after the test.
The recorded EKG data is then typically sent to a cardiologist or another healthcare provider for interpretation. They will analyze the patterns of the electrical signals to assess your heart rate, rhythm, and overall electrical activity. Depending on the facility and the urgency of the findings, you may receive your results on the same day, or they might be discussed at a follow-up appointment. If the results indicate a potential issue, your provider will discuss next steps, which may include further testing or treatment options.