ECG or EKG

What is it

An electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) is a recording of the electrical activity of the heart. Each heartbeat is caused by an electrical impulse that causes the heart to squeeze. The ECG records the electrical pattern of the heartbeat. Many different diseases and conditions affect the ECG pattern. Small, sticky electrode patches are placed on chest, wrists, and ankles. These patches are connected to a machine that records the electrical activity of heart. The recording is printed on paper for doctor to interpret.

Why is it done?
The ECG is used to record heart rhythms. It can diagnose abnormal heartbeats and rhythms. It can show also thickening of the heart muscle due to high blood pressure or other diseases. It is particularly helpful for diagnosing an acute heart attack and shows the effects of old heart attacks as well. It can show whether a part of the heart is not getting enough blood and hint at chemical imbalances in the body..

When is it done?
The ECG is a simple, inexpensive, easily performed test that gives a lot of information to doctor about the way heart is working. It can speed up the diagnosis of a heart attack so treatment can be started quickly. In critical care units, the ECG is recorded continuously and displayed on a monitor so that the medical team can quickly spot any change in heart function.

How to Avail it ?
One has to dial 6825000, 6825004, and 6825005 and take an appointment for a suitable date for check-up. One may also fix up the appointment through the internet (ehirc.com).

Before ... Precautions & prerequisites
Ordinarily no special preparation is required.