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ECG Testing Labs in Dhakuria

ECG

ECG Testing Labs in Dhakuria

An Electrocardiogram (ECG) is a diagnostic test used to monitor the electrical activity of the heart. It is a painless and non-invasive procedure that records the heart's electrical signals, providing information about its rhythm and function. This test serves as an important tool in diagnosing various heart conditions, including arrhythmias, coronary artery disease, and heart attacks. During the ECG procedure, electrodes are placed on the chest, arms, and legs to record the electrical signals produced by the heart.

ECGs are often a routine part of medical checkups and are used in emergencies to quickly assess heart function. Their non-invasive nature and quick performance render them indispensable in routine medical care and urgent situations.

FAQ's

ECG is used to detect:

  • Abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias) 
  • Presence of blocked or narrowed arteries in the heart (coronary artery disease) 
  • If you had a previous heart attack
  • The working of instruments, such as a pacemaker
  • Heart failure

 An ECG is also performed if you exhibit any of the following symptoms or indicators:

  • Chest pain
  • Dizziness or faintness 
  • Heart palpitations
  • Increased pulse rate
  • Difficult breathing
  • Weakness or fatigue
  • Reduced ability to exercise

Yes, an ECG test can be taken by individuals of all ages based on their medical history and symptoms. It can also be taken generally as a routine screening test for health conditions.

You can prepare for an ECG (electrocardiogram) in the following ways:

  • Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to your chest area, as electrodes (small adhesive patches) will be placed on your skin. Avoid wearing clothing with metal buttons, snaps, or zippers, as they may interfere with the ECG recording.
  • Avoid applying body creams, lotions, oils, or powders, as they can interfere with the adherence of the electrodes.
  • Some people may also need to shave and clean their chests before the test.
  • Avoid vigorous exercise or physical exertion immediately before the test, as it may affect your heart rate and influence the ECG results. However, regular daily activities can be continued as usual.

During an Electrocardiogram Test, you can expect the following:

  • You will be asked to lie down, and a doctor will attach sticky patches (called electrodes) to your arms, legs, and chest. They are attached to an ECG machine.
  • While the ECG machine records the electrical signals of your heartbeat, you will need to lie still for a few minutes.
  • Once the ECG recording is complete, the electrodes will be removed from your skin. You may feel a slight discomfort or pulling sensation as the electrodes are peeled off, similar to removing a bandage.
  • The recorded ECG signals will be analysed by a cardiologist, to assess your heart's electrical activity and detect any abnormalities.

After an ECG test, you can expect the following:

  • The electrodes will be removed from your skin, which may cause slight discomfort similar to removing a plaster. Some people might get a slight rash where the electrodes are positioned.
  • In most cases, there is no aftercare necessary following an ECG test. After the test, you can get right back to your regular activities.
  • If the ECG test reveals any abnormalities or concerns, your healthcare provider may recommend additional tests or follow-up appointments to further evaluate your heart health.

Generally, ECGs are performed by trained healthcare professionals, such as doctors, nurses, or technicians.

Getting an ECG (electrocardiogram) test is not painful. The procedure involves attaching electrodes to the chest and limbs with sticky patches, which record the heart's electrical signals without producing any electricity or causing discomfort. While some individuals may experience minor discomfort when the electrodes are removed, similar to removing a bandage, the overall process of having an ECG is safe and painless.

ECG primarily examines electrical activity, providing exact information about your heart's rhythm and detecting irregularities at rest. Other cardiac tests, like Stress Tests, Echocardiograms, Catheterization, Holter Monitors, and Imaging Scans, offer more information about the heart structure, function, and blood flow, making them suitable for various diagnostic purposes.

If you are middle-aged or elderly and have risk factors for a heart attack, such as high blood pressure, high low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, or diabetes, even if you feel well, you should definitely get an Electrocardiogram (ECG) once a year.

Yes, stress and anxiety can impact ECG results by causing changes in heart rhythm.

In most cases, ECG is covered by health insurance. But it may vary depending on the plan.