Electrocardiogram (EKG)

An electrocardiogram (EKG) is a recording of the electrical activity of the heart muscle. This is a painless test where electrodes are placed on the chest and limbs to record the heart beat for a few seconds. It is useful to assess the cardiac rhythm of irregular heartbeats and provides information about the thickness and size of the heart chambers. This test is noninvasive and can be done in a matter of minutes with immediate results in your doctor’s office. No electricity is emitted during the test and it will not affect your heart’s rhythm, but it is important to let your doctor know if you are taking any medications or supplements as they can affect the outcome of your electrocardiogram.