ELECTROCARDIOGRAM (ECG)

  • ECG

An electrocardiogram is a painless, noninvasive way to help diagnose many common heart problems in people of all ages. It is used to determine or detect:

  • Abnormal heart rhythm (arrhythmias)
  • If blocked or narrowed arteries in your heart (coronary artery disease) are causing chest pain or a heart attack
  • Whether you have had a previous heart attack
  • How well certain heart disease treatments, such as a pacemaker, are working

You may need an ECG if you have any of the following signs and symptoms:

  • Chest pain
  • Dizziness, lightheadedness or confusion
  • Heart palpitations
  • Rapid pulse
  • Shortness of breath
  • Weakness, fatigue or a decline in ability to exercise
  • Holter

A Holter monitor is a small, wearable device that records a continuous ECG, usually for 24 to 48 hours. It is a type of heart monitor that records your heart’s activity. If you have an irregular heartbeat or heart palpitations, but an ECG didn’t detect anything, a cardiac monitor can help diagnose the problem. You wear the Holter monitor while you do your daily activities. Your provider discusses the results with you.