An electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) is a simple, painless, and quick test that records the electrical signals in the heart. It is a non-invasive way to help diagnose many common heart problems and monitor the hearts health. During the test, electrodes are placed on the chest to record the hearts electrical signals, which cause the heart to beat. The signals are shown as waves on an attached computer monitor or printer.

An EKG is often the first test youll have if you have signs of a heart condition. It can help diagnose and monitor many types of heart conditions and their treatment, including arrhythmia, cardiomyopathy, and heart attack. EKG results can give a healthcare provider details about the heart rate, heart rhythm, and the strength and timing of the electrical signals passing through each part of the heart.

ECG machines are standard equipment in operating rooms and ambulances. Some personal devices, such as smartwatches, offer ECG monitoring. An EKG test is also called an ECG, and it is based on the German spelling, elektrokardiogramm. EKG tests are mainly used for people who have symptoms of a heart condition or have already been diagnosed with a heart condition. They are not generally used to screen people who dont have symptoms unless they have an increased risk of developing heart disease.

Overall, an EKG is a very quick and pain-free test that can provide valuable information to diagnose and monitor heart conditions.