Understanding the Heart Test

When it comes to organs that impact your body most, the heart tops the list. At the “heart of your body” is a vital organ that pumps blood, oxygen and nutrients to all parts of your body. Unfortunately, the heart can malfunction or become damaged just like any other organ in your body. One of the first tests that your doctor may order when evaluating your heart is an EKG.

What is an EKG?

An EKG (electrocardiogram) is a medical test that records the electrical activity of the heart. It is a common diagnostic tool used to assess the heart’s rhythm, rate, and overall electrical conduction. The EKG provides valuable information about the heart’s health and can help identify various cardiac conditions or abnormalities.

What Happens During an EKG Test?

During an EKG, small sensors called electrodes are placed on specific locations on the skin of the chest, arms, and legs. These electrodes detect the electrical signals generated by the heart as it contracts and relaxes. The signals are then amplified, recorded, and displayed as a visual representation on a graph or monitor.

What Information Can an Echocardiogram Provide?

The resulting EKG waveform or tracing provides information about different aspects of cardiac function, including:

Heart rate: The EKG can determine the heart’s rate, which is the number of beats per minute (BPM).

Rhythm: The EKG can identify the regularity or irregularity of the heart’s rhythm. It helps determine if the heart is beating in a normal sinus rhythm or if there are abnormalities like atrial fibrillation, ventricular arrhythmias, or other rhythm disturbances.

Conduction abnormalities: The EKG can reveal abnormalities in the electrical conduction system of the heart, such as bundle branch blocks, heart blocks, or abnormal pathways.

Heart muscle damage: Changes in the EKG waveform can indicate heart muscle damage or a previous heart attack. Specific patterns, such as ST segment elevation or Q waves, may suggest myocardial infarction (heart attack).

Other cardiac conditions: Certain EKG findings can provide clues about other heart conditions like hypertrophy (enlargement) of the heart chambers, pericarditis (inflammation of the outer lining of the heart), or electrolyte imbalances.

EKGs are non-invasive, painless, and relatively quick tests. They are routinely used in medical settings as a proven way to help diagnose and monitor heart conditions.

Reasons Why Dr. Benhuri May Order an EKG

There are many reasons why Dr. Benhuri may consider an EKG for your heart. It may be a routine screening or diagnostic tool to evaluate specific symptoms you are having. If you’ve been told you need an EKG, you will likely identify with one of the following:

You’re Symptomatic: If you’re experiencing symptoms like palpitations, rapid or irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting, an EKG may be ordered to evaluate your heart’s rhythm. It can help determine if there are any abnormal heart rhythms or arrhythmias present.

You Have Chest Pain: If you’re experiencing chest pain or discomfort, an EKG may be ordered to assess the electrical activity of your heart. It can help identify if there is evidence of a heart attack or if the pain is related to other cardiac conditions.

You are at Risk for a Heart Condition: An EKG may be part of a routine check-up or a preventive measure to screen for underlying heart conditions, especially if you have risk factors such as a family history of heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes.

You Currently Have a Heart Condition: If you’ve been diagnosed with a heart condition or are undergoing treatment, an EKG may be used to monitor your heart’s electrical activity over time. This can help assess the effectiveness of medications, track changes in heart function, or evaluate the progress of your condition.

You’re Having Surgery: Prior to certain surgeries, particularly those involving anesthesia or procedures that may put stress on the heart, an EKG may be performed as part of the preoperative evaluation to ensure the heart is functioning adequately.

You Need a General Health Assessment: In some cases, doctors may order an EKG as part of a comprehensive health assessment to gather baseline information about your heart’s electrical activity, even if you don’t have specific symptoms or known risk factors.

Remember, the specific reason for ordering an EKG can vary depending on your individual circumstances. Dr. Benhuri can always help you understand why he has specifically ordered the EKG in your case and discuss any concerns or questions you may have.

If you suspect that your heart needs an EKG or another cardiovascular test, please call our Beverly Hills clinic today to schedule your consult. We take care of your whole-body health with superior, patient-centered approach.