A resting electrocardiogram (ECG), also known as a basal ECG, is a common diagnostic tool used to assess the conductivity of your heart while you are at a stationary position. During the test, small electrodes are placed to your chest, arms, and legs to record the waves produced by your heart as it contracts. The resulting lines provide valuable insights about your heart's structure, including its speed, rhythm, and the presence of any abnormalities.
A resting ECG is a safe, painless, and non-invasive procedure. It can be used to identify a variety of heart conditions, such as irregular heartbeats, coronary artery disease, and heart failure.
- It is important to note that a resting ECG may not always detect all potential heart problems.
- Consequently, your doctor may order additional tests if needed.
Stress Test ECG
Exercise stress electrocardiography was a non-invasive test used to evaluate the heart's function under physical exertion. During this procedure, electrodes were on the chest to monitor the electrical signals of the heart. The patient typically walks on a treadmill or exercise bike while their vital signs are being measured closely.
The test helps detect potential problems with the heart, such as coronary artery disease or arrhythmias. It involves gradually increasing the intensity of exercise until a certain desired heart rate is attained.
At completion of the test, the electrocardiogram tracing reveals patterns to assess the heart's response to exercise and reveal potential issues.
Portable EKG Surveillance
Continuous ambulatory holter monitoring, also known as a portable EKG, is a reliable method for tracking the heart's electrical activity over an extended period. This wearable device facilitates physicians to pinpoint potential irregularities that may not be apparent during a short electrocardiogram (ECG) test. Patients usually wear the holter monitor for a full day or even extended periods, recording their heart rhythm continuously across daily activities. The collected data is then reviewed by a cardiologist, who can make a diagnosis and propose appropriate treatment alternatives.
Long-Term Electrocardiography for Vital Signs Assessment
Serial electrocardiography delivers a valuable method for assessing vital signs in individuals. It facilitates the measurement of heart rhythm over periods, providing physicians with key insights into clinical status. By interpreting electrocardiographic patterns, therapists can identify deviations that here may point to underlying problems. Moreover, serial electrocardiography can aid in the care of pre-existing heart conditions.