A resting electrocardiogram (ECG), also known as a standard ECG, is a common diagnostic tool used to monitor the heart rhythm of your heart while you are at complete stillness. During the test, small electrodes are placed to your chest, arms, and legs to record the signals produced by your heart as it contracts. The resulting tracings provide valuable insights about your heart's structure, including its rate, 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 arrhythmias, coronary artery disease, and heart failure.
- Remember that a resting ECG may not always detect all potential heart problems.
- As a result, your doctor may order more evaluations if needed.
Exercise Stress Electrocardiography
Exercise stress electrocardiography was a non-invasive test used to evaluate the heart's function during physical exertion. During this procedure, electrodes is placed on the chest to monitor the ECG. The patient typically walks on a treadmill or exercise bike while their heart rate is tracked closely.
The test helps identify potential problems with the heart, such as coronary artery disease or arrhythmias. It involves gradually increasing the intensity of exercise until a certain target heart rate is reached.
At the end of the test, the electrocardiogram tracing is analyzed to assess the heart's response to exercise and identify any abnormalities.
Continuous Ambulatory Holter Monitoring
Continuous ambulatory holter monitoring, also referred to as a portable EKG, is a reliable method for tracking the heart's electrical activity over an extended period. This non-invasive device enables physicians to identify potential abnormalities that may not be apparent during a limited electrocardiogram (ECG) test. Patients commonly carry the holter monitor for 24 hours or even extended periods, recording their heart rhythm continuously throughout daily activities. The collected data is then interpreted by a cardiologist, who can determine a diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment alternatives.
Long-Term Electrocardiography for Vital Signs Assessment
Serial electrocardiography offers a unique method for monitoring vital signs in subjects. It facilitates the measurement of electrical activity over periods, providing physicians with essential insights into patient health. By analyzing electrocardiographic tracings, doctors can detect deviations that may point here to underlying conditions. Furthermore, serial electrocardiography can support the treatment of existing cardiac diseases.