Glossary
An Electrocardiogram, commonly referred to as an ECG or EKG, is a non-invasive, diagnostic procedure that records the electrical activity of the heart over a period of time. This simple yet effective tool is used by healthcare professionals to assess the heart's rhythm, rate, and overall function. It provides valuable information about the heart's condition and can detect numerous heart-related problems.
The term"Electrocardiogram" is derived from the Greek words "electro" referring to its relation to electrical activity, "cardia" meaning heart, and "gram" meaning to write. The ECG machine records the heart's electrical signals and translates them into line tracings on paper. These tracings are then interpreted by medical professionals to determine if they are normal or if they indicate heart disease or other conditions. The ECG works on the principle that every heartbeat is triggered by an electrical signal that starts at the top of the heart and travels to the bottom. As this signal moves, it generates a current that can be detected on the skin. Electrodes attached to the skin can capture these signals and transmit them to the ECG machine, which then translates them into visual tracings.
The ECG tracing primarily consists of waveforms, P wave, QRS complex, and T wave. The P wave represents the electrical impulse traveling through the atria or the upper chambers of the heart. The QRS complex corresponds to the electrical impulse as it spreads through the ventricles or the lower chambers of the heart. The T wave signifies the ventricles’ recovery or return to a resting state. The ECG is an essential tool in diagnosing and managing various heart conditions. It can detect arrhythmias, which are problems with the heart rate or rhythm. It can also identify heart attacks, both ongoing and those that have occurred in the past. The ECG can show if the heart is enlarged or overworked, and it can even provide clues about other conditions, such as electrolyte imbalances.
The ECG is a safe procedure with no known risks. It does not send electricity into the body but merely records the electrical activity that the body naturally produces. The test is painless and quick, typically taking only a few minutes. The patient lies still while 10 to 12 electrodes are attached to the chest, arms, and legs. The ECG machine then records the heart's electrical activity for a short period. Despite its simplicity, the ECG is a powerful tool that can provide a wealth of information about the heart. However, it is not infallible. It may not detect intermittent heart problems because the test records the heart's activity only for a short time. Also, not all heart conditions can be detected with an ECG. Therefore, it is often used in conjunction with other tests to diagnose heart disease.
In conclusion, the Electrocardiogram or ECG is a fundamental diagnostic tool in modern medicine. It provides a snapshot of the heart's electrical activity, offering valuable insights into the heart's health and function. It is a safe, painless, and quick procedure that can detect a wide range of heart conditions, making it an indispensable tool in the prevention, diagnosis, and management of heart disease.