The term EKG (also known as an ECG) refers to an electrocardiogram, a test that measures the electrical activity of your heart. An EKG translates the heart’s electrical signals that control the rhythm of your heartbeat and translates the information to lines on paper, displaying spikes and dips.
Why do I need an EKG?
Dr. Fenster may order this test for:
• Unexplained chest pain or palpitations
• Determining the cause of shortness of breath, dizziness or fainting
• Evaluating effectiveness or side effects of current medications
• Assessing devices used to control the heart (such as a pacemaker)
• Pre-operative clearance
• Previous heart problems
• Strong family history of heart disease
• Other conditions such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes
• Smoking
There is no reason for healthy people to have an annual EKG.
An EKG is used to evaluate:
• Size and position of your heart chambers
• Damage to the heart
• Heart rate
• Heart rhythm
What about your results?
In a “normal” electrocardiogram, the results show that the heart beats in a regular rhythm, usually between 60 and 100 beats per minute.
An abnormal EKG may show:
• The heart beats either too quickly or too slowly
• The heart rhythm is irregular
• The tracing does not look normal.
An abnormal EKG does not necessarily reveal heart disease. In fact, the results may be inconclusive if:
• You are anxious or breathing very deeply or rapidly
• The electrodes are not securely attached to your skin
• You move or talk during the test
• Exercise before the test
If it turns out your EKG is truly abnormal, this may be an indication for further evaluation, such as a stress test, echocardiogram, or cardiac catheterization.
The test will be performed right in Dr. Fenster’s office:
Cardiac Institute of the Palm Beaches, PA
108 Intracoastal Pointe Drive
Suite 100
Jupiter, FL 33477
Phone: 561-296-5225
If you have any questions about your procedure, please call us.