ECG

Diseases and Disorders

An Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) is one of the most widely used diagnostic tools in modern cardiology. This simple yet powerful test records the electrical activity of the heart and provides valuable insights into a patient’s cardiac health. The data captured can reveal both acute and chronic cardiac conditions, many of which may not present with obvious symptoms until they become serious.

One of the primary uses of an ECG is to detect arrhythmias, which are abnormalities in the heart’s rhythm. The heart may beat too quickly (tachycardia), too slowly (bradycardia), or irregularly. These rhythm disorders can be caused by a number of factors, including stress, electrolyte imbalances, or underlying structural problems. Some arrhythmias, such as atrial fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia, can lead to serious complications if not identified and managed early.

ECG is also crucial in diagnosing heart attacks (myocardial infarctions). During a heart attack, blood flow to part of the heart muscle is blocked, causing tissue damage. An ECG can detect changes in the heart’s electrical activity that are characteristic of a heart attack, allowing for rapid diagnosis and treatment. It can also show evidence of a previous heart attack, which is essential in planning long-term treatment and management strategies.

Another common condition identified through ECG is coronary artery disease (CAD), which occurs when the blood vessels supplying the heart become narrowed or blocked. While not all cases of CAD show up on a resting ECG, certain changes in the wave patterns can suggest reduced blood flow to the heart muscle. In these cases, a stress ECG may be performed while the patient exercises to reveal problems that are not apparent when the body is at rest.

Heart blocks are also effectively diagnosed using ECG. These are conditions where the electrical signals in the heart are delayed or completely blocked. Depending on the location and severity of the block, these can lead to symptoms like fatigue, dizziness, and fainting. Identifying the type and degree of block is essential for determining whether a pacemaker or other intervention is needed.

Hypertrophy of the heart, particularly left ventricular hypertrophy, is another disorder ECG can detect. This condition, where the walls of the heart’s main pumping chamber become thickened, often results from long-standing high blood pressure or other cardiac conditions. Detecting this early can help prevent complications like heart failure.

ECG is often used to evaluate chest pain, shortness of breath, or unexplained fainting. In many cases, these symptoms can be attributed to heart issues that are clearly visible on an ECG, such as pericarditis (inflammation of the lining around the heart) or electrolyte imbalances that affect the heart’s rhythm and function.

Patients with known heart conditions or those taking medications that affect the heart are regularly monitored with ECGs to assess the effectiveness of treatment and watch for any side effects. ECG also helps in assessing the function of implanted devices such as pacemakers or defibrillators to ensure they are working as intended.

Additionally, an ECG is often a part of routine screenings, especially for individuals with risk factors such as diabetes, hypertension, smoking, obesity, or a family history of heart disease. It can serve as an early warning system, prompting further tests or preventive measures even before symptoms arise.

In summary, the ECG is a non-invasive, cost-effective, and indispensable tool in diagnosing a wide range of cardiovascular diseases and disorders. Its role in both emergency and preventive healthcare makes it a cornerstone of cardiac diagnostics, helping patients receive timely care, improve outcomes, and live healthier lives.

Our ECG tests are conducted using automated, high-precision machines, and every result is interpreted by a qualified medical professional, ensuring accuracy and clarity in diagnosis. Reports are made available same-day via WhatsApp, email, or in-person, depending on patient preference.