Electrocardiogram (ECG)
An ECG (electrocardiogram) is a test that records the electrical activity of your heart, including the rate and rhythm. It's usually quick and painless.
Why an ECG (electrocardiogram) is done
You'll usually have an ECG (electrocardiogram) if a doctor or healthcare professional thinks you're having symptoms of:
- a heart attack
- coronary heart disease
- problems with how quickly or regularly your heart beats (arrhythmia)
You also may have an ECG:
- if you've been diagnosed with a heart condition or another condition that affects how well your heart works
- before and while taking certain medicines
Preparing for an ECG (electrocardiogram)
There are some things you can do to help you prepare for an ECG (electrocardiogram), such as:
- wearing a top that's easy to take on and off
- not putting body lotions, oils or talcum powder on your skin before the test
- not eating a heavy meal or having caffeine before an exercise ECG (stress test)
Some people may also need to have their chest shaved and cleaned before the test.
Let the person doing the ECG know if you'd like someone else to be in the room with you (a chaperone). This could be someone you know, another nurse or a trained member of staff.
What happens during an ECG (electrocardiogram)
An ECG (electrocardiogram) is done by a specially trained healthcare professional at a hospital, clinic or GP surgery.
There are 3 different ways an ECG may be done:
- while resting
- over a period of time, while wearing a portable ECG
- while doing exercise or after being given medicine that changes your heart rate (stress test)
The type of ECG you have will depend on your symptoms or condition. The doctor or specialist will explain which you will have and why.
Getting your ECG (electrocardiogram) results
You may get your ECG (electrocardiogram) results on the same day, but it can take a few weeks depending on the type of ECG you had.
You may need a follow-up appointment to talk about your ECG results.
If you've not heard anything after a few weeks, contact the doctor who referred you.
The GP, nurse or specialist should talk to you about your results and explain what happens next.
Sometimes you may need other tests.
Ask to talk to a healthcare professional if you have questions about your results, or do not understand them.
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