Electrocardiogram (ECG)
An electrocardiogram (ECG) records the electrical activity of the heart through small sticky electrodes placed on the skin. In a few minutes, it shows the heart rate and rhythm and can reveal signs of heart strain, previous damage, electrolyte disturbances or the effects of some medicines.
At YGOPH, ECGs are performed in the emergency department and for patients referred by our doctors, for example before an operation, for a woman with high blood pressure or palpitations in pregnancy, or for a child with a heart murmur or fainting episodes. The ECG is often the first step before an assessment by a cardiologist.
How is an ECG recorded?
You lie on an examination couch with your chest, wrists and ankles uncovered. Ten electrodes are placed on the skin and connected to the machine by wires. You simply lie still and breathe normally for a few seconds while the recording is made; nothing is sent into your body and you feel nothing. The trace is printed or saved and interpreted by a doctor.
- Chest pain, palpitations, dizziness or fainting
- High blood pressure, including in pregnancy
- Before anaesthesia and surgery when needed
- A heart murmur or suspected heart disease in a child
- Electrolyte problems or medicines that affect the heart rhythm
Good to know
ECG in pregnancy
An ECG is completely safe in pregnancy. The heart works harder during pregnancy, and palpitations or a faster heart rate are common. An ECG helps doctors tell normal changes from problems that need treatment, particularly in women with high blood pressure, heart disease or severe anaemia.
Understanding the result
The doctor looks at the heart rate, the rhythm and the shape of each wave. A normal ECG is reassuring, although it records only a few seconds and may miss symptoms that come and go. If needed, your doctor may request further tests, such as an echocardiogram, or a consultation with a cardiologist.