ECG Test: Purpose, Procedure, Normal Results & What Abnormal Results Mean
If your doctor has recommended an ECG test, you may be wondering what the test actually checks, whether it is painful, and what it means if your result is called "abnormal." An ECG (electrocardiogram) is one of the quickest, non-invasive, and painless tools available to evaluate your heart's electrical health.
📌 Key Takeaways: Quick Summary
- What it does: Measures heart rate, rhythm, and electrical conduction via sensors placed on your skin.
- When it's needed: Recommended for symptoms like chest pain, palpitations, dizziness, or shortness of breath.
- Crucial Limitation: A normal ECG is reassuring but cannot rule out every hidden heart condition. Conversely, an abnormal result doesn't automatically mean severe heart disease.
- Automated Reports: Machine-printed summaries are preliminary; a qualified doctor must interpret the results alongside your clinical history.
 |
| An ECG records the heart's electrical activity and helps healthcare professionals evaluate heart rate and rhythm. |
