Doctors utilize an electrocardiogram (ECG), a simple check, to study the electric hobby, rhythm, and tempo of your coronary heart. If your heart specialist or health practitioner thinks you may have a cardiac circumstance, they might advise an ECG.
Feeling frightened or worried earlier than the take a look at is quite traditional. However, you can experience more at peace if you recognize how it operates and what you may do to get ready. This blog post with the aid of Dr. Nityanand Tripathi explains the way to be geared up for an ECG.
How does an ECG work?
The heart’s electrical circuit is monitored via an ECG. The electrical system of the heart is made up of cells that produce electrical impulses that go throughout the heart, assisting in its constant and appropriate beating.
An ECG measures the electrical activity of your beating heart using sensors that are affixed to your skin. Ten electrodes will be applied to your skin using an adhesive patch by your physician or cardiologist, such as Dr. Nityanand Tripathi, who has over 21 years of clinical experience in interventional cardiology and electrophysiology. After that, the electrodes are fastened to cables that are connected to the ECG machine.
Throughout the test, the device captures the electrical activity of your heart and writes it as a visual waveform on paper. Cardiovascular disease can be evaluated and diagnosed by medical specialists.
What to expect during an ECG:
Once the small electrodes are stuck on your chest, arms, and legs, recording your heart’s activity can begin. The electrodes pick up your heart’s electrical activity and show on the continuously printed waveform. You will need to remain as still as you can during the ECG because any movement can affect the results.
Typically, an ECG only takes a few minutes to complete, and you shouldn’t feel any discomfort. The only potential mild discomfort can be the doctor removing the electrodes carefully from your skin.
To ensure you’re as comfortable as possible, wear clothing that’s easy to remove or undo so the doctor can easily place the electrodes onto your skin. Avoiding restrictive clothing can also help you to relax during the test. ECGs are non-invasive, so you can go home soon afterwards.
Preparing for an ECG
It is completely normal to feel anxious before having any kind of heart test, but knowing how non-invasive an ECG is can give you peace of mind. Feeling worried before your test can interfere with your results, so take good care of yourself before your appointment.
Stay well-hydrated before your ECG and do your best to get a good night’s sleep — both will help you to feel ready for the day ahead.
Do not use any skin oils or lotions before your ECG because it can make the adhesive on the electrodes less effective.
If you have any questions about what you can and cannot do before your ECG, contact us at Expert Cardiologist, and we will be happy to answer them.
What to avoid before your ECG
Before you have your ECG, avoid drinking anything caffeinated and smoking tobacco. They can increase your heart rate, resulting in inaccurate results on the waveform. Your heart rate needs to be as close to ‘at rest’ as it can be, so you must also avoid rigorous physical activity beforehand.
After the ECG
Once the ECG is complete, the operator will remove the electrodes from your skin. Although removal can sometimes feel slightly uncomfortable, it will not cause significant pain.
Having an ECG normally requires no aftercare or recovery time because it is non-invasive. You can return home immediately and continue your regular activities unless your doctor advises against it.
Potential ECG risks
ECGs are extremely safe cardiovascular tests, but there are potential rare complications, from skin irritation to an allergic reaction to the electrodes’ adhesive. If you feel any burning or itching from the electrodes, tell the cardiologist so they can determine if you are reacting to the adhesive.
If you experience severe chest pain during the ECG, tell the cardiologist immediately so you can receive medical help.
Follow-up appointments and interpreting the results of your ECG
Your cardiologist may make a follow-up appointment to discuss your results and confirm any treatment plans.
The results of an ECG can be used to detect:
- Arrhythmias
- Heart defects, such as an enlarged heart
- Electrolyte imbalances
- Coronary artery disease
A qualified cardiologist, such as Dr. Nityanand Tripathi, who has vast clinical experience in clinical and interventional cardiology and electrophysiology for more than 21 years, must analyse your ECG results because they can provide an accurate, definitive diagnosis. At Expert Cardiologist, Dr. Nityanand Tripathi will interpret your ECG results and share them with you before creating a personalized treatment plan to meet your needs.
Prioritizing your heart health is essential to safeguard your future. An ECG with Expert Cardiologist provides an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatments, supporting you on your healthy heart journey.