An electrocardiogram, commonly referred to as an ECG or EKG, is a quick and simple test that measures the electrical activity of the heart. Each heartbeat is triggered by an electrical impulse originating from the heart’s cells. Healthcare professionals use this test to assess the heart’s condition, checking for various issues such as arrhythmias, coronary artery disease, and prior heart attacks. The test records the timing and strength of these impulses as they travel through the heart, presenting the data as a waveform on a readout for analysis.
Performing an ECG involves placing electrodes on the patient’s chest and limbs. The electrodes detect the tiny electrical changes on the skin that arise from the heart muscle’s electrophysiologic pattern with each beat. Although the ECG is a central tool for monitoring heart function, it is also non-invasive, painless, and quick to administer, making it a practical diagnostic procedure in numerous health care settings such as clinics and hospitals.
Contents
What You See on an ECG
An ECG (electrocardiogram) shows the electrical activity of your heart. It’s a painless test that helps doctors diagnose many heart conditions. Here’s what you’ll see on an ECG and what it means.
ECG Waves
- P wave: This small wave shows the electrical activity of the atria (the upper chambers of the heart).
- QRS complex: This is the largest part of the ECG. It shows the electrical activity of the ventricles (the lower chambers of the heart).
- T wave: This wave shows the ventricles recovering after they contract.
ECG Intervals
Intervals are spaces between the waves of an ECG. Heart problems can cause these intervals to be too long or too short.
- PR interval: The time from the start of the P wave to the start of the QRS complex.
- QT interval: The time from the start of the QRS complex to the end of the T wave.
ECG Rhythm
Your ECG also shows the rhythm of your heart. A normal rhythm is called sinus rhythm. Other heart rhythms include:
- Atrial fibrillation: A fast and irregular heart rhythm.
- Ventricular tachycardia: A very fast heart rhythm.
- Heart block: The electrical signal is slowed or blocked as it travels through the heart.
Summary Table
P wave | Atrial activity |
QRS complex | Ventricular activity |
T wave | Ventricular recovery |
PR interval | Time for the electrical signal to travel from atria to ventricles |
QT interval | Time for ventricles to contract and recover |
ECG readings help your doctor decide if you need more tests or treatment.
Key Takeaways
- An ECG is used to measure the electrical activity of the heart.
- It is a standard, non-invasive test for diagnosing heart conditions.
- The test is quick, painless, and can be performed in a variety of healthcare settings.
Understanding ECGs
This section provides an in-depth look at the ECG concerning electrode placement, interpreting electrical signals, and analyzing test results.
Electrode Placement and Procedure
The ECG procedure begins with the careful placement of electrodes on the patient’s chest, arms, and legs. A technician applies these conductive pads to the skin after properly preparing the areas to ensure unimpeded signal transmission. At least twelve electrodes are used during a standard ECG to capture a wide range of electrical activity from various parts of the heart.
Electrical Signals and Wave Patterns
Once the electrodes are in place, they detect the electrical impulses that initiate every heartbeat. The heart’s electrical system causes the atria and ventricles to contract, regulating the rhythm and rate of the heartbeat. On an ECG readout, this activity is divided into distinct segments: the P wave representing atrial depolarization, the QRS complex denoting ventricular depolarization, and the T wave indicating ventricular repolarization.
Interpreting the Results
A cardiologist interprets the ECG, looking for abnormalities in the wave patterns that may reveal heart conditions such as arrhythmia, heart attacks, or other dysfunctions. Irregularities may indicate issues with blood flow, heart muscle damage, or elevated risk for future cardiac events. The results help form a diagnosis, guide treatment decisions, and assess the urgency of a patient’s condition.