What is an Electrocardiogram (ECG)?

An Electrocardiogram, commonly known as an ECG, is a diagnostic test that measures the electrical signals produced by the heart as it beats. These signals are recorded through small sensors placed on the skin and displayed as a waveform.

The ECG provides valuable information about heart rate, rhythm, conduction pathways, and signs of heart strain or damage. It is widely used as a first-line cardiac investigation and does not involve radiation or discomfort.

ECGs are commonly performed in both routine screening and urgent cardiac assessment.

When an Electrocardiogram (ECG) is recommended

An ECG may be recommended if there are symptoms or findings suggesting heart rhythm or electrical abnormalities.

You may be advised to have an ECG if you:

• Experience palpitations or irregular heartbeat
• Have chest pain or tightness
• Feel dizzy, faint, or light-headed
• Have shortness of breath
• Have high blood pressure or diabetes
• Have a history of heart disease
• Have abnormal blood test or imaging results
• Require pre-procedure or routine cardiac assessment

What the Electrocardiogram assesses

The ECG provides information on:

• Heart rate and rhythm
• Electrical conduction pathways
• Arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats)
• Signs of heart enlargement or strain
• Evidence of previous or ongoing heart injury
• Effects of electrolyte imbalance or medication

Benefits of an Electrocardiogram (ECG)

• Quick and non-invasive
  Completed within minutes.
• No radiation exposure
  Completely safe diagnostic test.
• Detects rhythm abnormalities
  Identifies arrhythmias accurately.
• Supports early diagnosis of heart conditions
  Guides further investigations.
• Useful in urgent and routine assessment
  Widely used in clinical practice.
• Safe and repeatable
  Can be performed as often as needed.
• Provides immediate results
  Heart activity is recorded in real time.
• Essential cardiac screening tool
  Standard part of cardiovascular evaluation.

How the Electrocardiogram is performed

The ECG is carried out by a trained healthcare professional.

• You will lie comfortably on an examination couch
• Small adhesive electrodes are placed on the chest, arms and legs
• The electrodes record electrical signals from the heart
• The recording takes only a few minutes

The test is painless and requires no recovery time.

Understanding your ECG results

Normal ECG

Heart rhythm and electrical activity are within expected ranges.

Typical report:

• Normal sinus rhythm

Abnormal rhythm

Irregular or fast/slow heart rhythms may be identified.

Typical report:

• Arrhythmia detected

Electrical or structural indicators

Changes may suggest heart strain, conduction issues or previous injury.

Typical report:

• ECG abnormalities noted – further assessment advised

ECG results are interpreted alongside symptoms, medical history and other test findings.