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Electrocardiogram, Here's What You Need to Know

Electrocardiogram (EKG) is a simple test to measure and record the electrical activity of the heart. This test uses an electrical impulse detection machine called an electrocardiograph. Electrocardiograph will translate electrical impulses into graphs that are displayed on the monitor screen. EKG is not painful because without the flow of electricity and without incision (noninvasive). The doctor will attach the electrodes, generally numbering 10 or 12 pieces, made of plastic and small in size, on the chest, arms and legs. Electrodes are connected by wires to the electrocardiograph machine. The electrical activity of the heart is then measured and printed by an ECG machine, and interpreted by a doctor as supporting the diagnosis. Doctors recommend EKG for patients who experience symptoms of heart problems, such as:
  • Chest pain.
  • Difficulty breathing.
  • Fast tired and weak.
  • Heart palpitations and heart rhythm disorders.

Indications and Contraindications Electrocardiogram

An electrocardiogram (ECG) can be used to detect conditions such as:
  • Heart attack.
  • Coronary heart disease.
  • Gagguan electrolyte.
  • Drug poisoning and side effects.
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of pacemakers.
No contraindications were found on the electrocardiogram, unless the patient refused an examination.

Before an electrocardiogram

In general, there are no specific preparations for electrocardiogram (ECG) examinations, sometimes ECGs are performed in an emergency to detect heart attacks and know the heart's working conditions that may accompany other diseases. However, if the patient is planned to do an EKG, it is best to avoid using lotion, oil, or powder on the body, especially the chest. If there is hair on the chest, it should also be shaved. This can sometimes make it difficult for electrodes to stick to the body. Inform your doctor about medicines, supplements, and herbs that are being consumed.

Electrocardiogram Procedure

Electrocardiogram (ECG) generally lasts 5-8 minutes. This test can be done in a hospital or clinic that has an ECG examination facility, and the process is usually done by a nurse. Before lying on the bed the patient will be asked to remove the upper clothes, as well as remove accessories or objects contained in clothing bags that might affect the results of the examination. After lying on the bed, the electrodes will be attached to the patient's chest, arms, and legs. Avoid talking and moving limbs because it can mess up test results. Each electrode cable is connected to an ECG machine and will record the electrical activity of the heart. The doctor will interpret the heart's electrical activity based on the waves displayed on the monitor screen and will be printed on paper.

After an electrocardiogram

After electrocardiogram (EKG) examination, the patient is allowed to carry out activities as usual. Activities that are restricted will usually be adjusted to the illness suffered by the patient. Results from ECG records can be directly discussed by the doctor or an appointment can be made again to see the doctor at a later time. After that, the patient may undergo further tests in accordance with the results of the EKG or the disease suspected by the doctor. Some information that can be obtained from an EKG examination is:
  • Heart rate. Normal, too slow, or too fast.
  • Heart rhythm. Regular or irregular.
  • Changes in heart muscle structure. ECG can see the possibility of enlargement of the chambers or walls of the heart.
  • Oxygen supply for the heart muscle. Someone with a lack of oxygen can be suspected of having coronary heart disease or even having a heart attack. Usually this is characterized by chest pain.

Electrocardiogram Side Effects

Electrocardiogram (EKG) tests are believed to be safe, fast, and painless. Side effects are generally in the form of allergic skin reactions to the electrodes attached to the body. A little pain can also be experienced when the electrode is removed.

Types of Electrocardiogram

Sometimes heart abnormalities are not detected with a standard electrocardiogram (ECG) examination, because these abnormalities can disappear and may occur when the examination does not appear. For this reason, there are several types of cardiac electrical activity tests that are slightly different from standard ECG tests. Other types of ECG are:
  • Stress test (ECG Treadmill). In contrast to the standard ECG, the treadmill ECG records electrical activity while the patient is doing the activity. In addition to the treadmill, patients can also be asked to pedal a static bicycle during the test.
  • Holter monitor. This small device can be worn around the neck and electrodes attached to the chest. Holter monitors are able to record ECG continuously with a duration of 1-2 days. Patients are allowed to carry out activities as usual when using a monitor holter, as long as the electrode and monitor holster device remain dry. The doctor will ask the patient to remember events that are being carried out that result in changes in heart electrical activity.

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