Electrocardiogram

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Definition Why it's done Risks

How you prepare What you can expect Results

Definition

An electrocardiogram is used to monitor your heart. Each beat of your heart is triggered by an electrical impulse generated from special cells in the right upper chamber of your heart. An electrocardiogram — also called an ECG or EKG — records these electrical signals as they travel through your heart. Your doctor can use an electrocardiogram to look for patterns among these heartbeats and rhythms to diagnose various heart conditions.

An electrocardiogram is a non-invasive, painless test. You doctor will likely report the results of your electrocardiogram the same day it's performed.

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Why it's done