Electrocardiogram (ECG)
This is a quick and informative heart examination that records the electrical activity of the heart at rest. It helps to detect heart rhythm and function disorders early.
What is it?
An electrocardiogram (ECG) is a simple test that allows the doctor to see how the heart's electrical system is working. The heart produces each beat with electrical impulses, and these impulses can be recorded and displayed on a graph.
An ECG is a very useful, quick, and informative test because heart disease often affects the electrical activity of the heart. It helps the doctor determine whether the heart is beating rhythmically, whether it is too fast or too slow, and whether there are any abnormalities in the heart's function.
How is it done?
During the test, the patient lies on their back, and small electrodes (usually about 10) are attached to their chest, arms, and legs. These are connected to a machine that records the electrical signals generated by the heart with each beat.
The electrodes "listen" to the heart's electrical impulses; they do not send current into the body and are completely harmless.
An ECG recording only takes a few minutes, but up to 60 minutes of visit time is reserved for one patient to ensure a doctor's consultation and evaluation of the results. If you only need an ECG examination without a doctor's consultation and conclusion, please inform the registration desk.
When is it needed?
Echocardiography is most often recommended if:
-
if you have complaints of chest pain, heart palpitations or "pounding", unexplained dizziness or loss of consciousness, as well as if you have shortness of breath, especially during exercise.
-
if you suspect a heart rate that is too slow or too fast;
-
if you feel that your heart is beating unevenly or irregularly;
-
if you feel tired, weak or dizzy for no apparent reason;
-
if the doctor detects noises during auscultation of the heart;
-
as part of heart disease surveillance in patients with already known diagnoses;
-
preventively (without complaints), for example, when starting to play some sports;
-
in other cases, upon the doctor's advice.
How to prepare?
An ECG is a quick, safe and simple method of examining the heart that does not require any special preparation. Here are some practical tips:
-
If you have previous ECG recordings or doctor's notes, bring them with you – the comparison helps identify changes in heart rhythm or electrical activity.
-
Easy-to-remove clothing is recommended to free up your chest, ankles, and wrists.
-
Do not use body lotions or oils on the day of the examination – they may interfere with the adhesion of the electrodes.
-
Take your usual medications unless the doctor tells you otherwise.
-
Rest before the examination: it is advisable to be calm, not anxious, and avoid intense physical exertion immediately before the procedure so that the ECG result is more accurate.
Learn how to prepare for a doctor's consultation at the Medica Riga clinic.