What Getting EKG Tested Can Tell Your Doctor About Your Heart

The idea of getting an electrocardiogram, also known as an EKG or an ECG, might seem a little stressful, even scary. It’s important to note, however, that the exam itself is painless and completely noninvasive, compared to many other tests. If your doctor orders an EKG, it’s because they want to find out more about your heart and if it has any problems with its functions.

At Houston Family MD, Ranjit Grewal, MD, offers comprehensive care in Houston, Texas. They might request an EKG if they have concerns about a patient’s heart. However, they want you to know what the test will be able to tell them before you take it, so you can be as informed as possible.

What is an EKG and what does it entail?

As mentioned previously, EKG or ECG is an abbreviation for electrocardiogram. According to WebMD, the test itself records the heart’s electrical activity through electrode patches that are placed on your chest, legs, and arms. The test requires that you lie still while the electrodes are placed on your body. You will need to avoid wearing lotions in the areas where the electrodes will be placed, and sometimes, men’s chests will need to be shaved in order to easily attach the electrodes.

It takes about 10 minutes for the preparation and conclusion of the test, but the actual monitoring and recording of your heart activity only takes a few seconds. Sometimes, patients are asked to perform another EKG while exercising. In some cases, Dr. Grewal, at Houston Family MD, might request a more specific type of EKG tests, such as a Holter monitor or an event monitor test.

What does a regular, resting EKG tell your doctor?  

Dr. Grewal will usually request an EKG if he suspects something is wrong with the heart, but needs to confirm the exact problem. An EKG can diagnose a number of issues and shed light on certain areas, such as

• Whether or not a previous experience you had was a heart attack
• According to Go Health UC, in 45% of heart attack cases, people don’t actually realize they’re having them because the symptoms are so mild.
• If your heart has structural issues or is enlarged
• If your heart rhythm is irregular (also known as arrhythmia)
• If your arteries are blocked and could be causing chest pains or other, more serious issues, such as a heart attack
• If your heart is not getting enough oxygen
• Whether or not a treatment you previously received for a heart problem is working

EKGs can tell doctors many different things about the heart, how it’s working, if it is structurally sound, if you experienced a serious, cardiac event, or if you are likely to experience one in the future. With an EKG, your doctor can find out much more about the inner workings of your heart and diagnose suspected conditions. The best thing about an EKG is it’s also a minor, minimally invasive test, so you don’t have to worry about any serious treatments as of yet.

Why would I need an EKG?

As mentioned previously, you might need an EKG if you already have been treated for a heart problem and your doctor wants to check on the treatment. This could include anything from a pacemaker to how well a certain medication is working.

If you aren’t already aware of a previous heart problem, the need for an EKG might arise based on certain symptoms you discuss with your doctor. These symptoms can include

• Dizziness
• Confusion
• Chest pains
• Lightheadedness
• Fatigue
• Inability to exercise
• Weakness
• Heart palpitations
• Fast pulse
• Shortness of breath

In addition, if you have a history of heart problems or heart disease in your family, are scheduled for an upcoming surgery, or your doctor is otherwise concerned about your heart, an EKG can help them discover and/or rule out any specific issues.

Want to learn more about EKGs?

We are happy to help you learn more about this test and its benefits at Houston Family MD facilities. Contact us now to make an appointment at our Houston, Texas office. You can also request an appointment online.