Electrocardiogram (ECG) for children and infants
An electrocardiogram is a quick and safe heart test that records the electrical activity of a child's heart at rest. It helps the doctor detect heart rhythm or conduction disorders early and assess the health of the child's heart.
What is it?
An electrocardiogram (ECG) is a simple, painless, and quick test that allows the doctor to see how the child's heart's electrical system is working. The heart produces electrical impulses every time it beats, and these impulses are recorded and displayed on a graph called an electrocardiogram. It helps determine whether the heart is beating rhythmically, whether it is too fast, too slow, or irregular, and whether there are any abnormalities in the heart's function.
An ECG is a very informative and frequently used test for children, as it helps to detect heart rhythm disorders, congenital heart defects, or changes in heart function during various illnesses.
The ECG is performed in a calm, child-friendly environment, where everything happens without pain, noise, or rush. The procedure is completely safe, does not use radiation, and the child does not feel any discomfort.
How is it done?
During the examination, the child lies on his back on a soft couch. Small electrodes – about 10 in total – are glued to the chest, arms, and legs. They are connected to an ECG machine that “reads” the heart’s electrical signals.
The electrodes do not send current into the body; they only “listen” to how the heart beats. It is completely harmless and painless. For younger children, if they feel insecure or anxious, the examination can be performed while sitting on a parent’s lap – this way the child feels calmer and safer.
To make it easier for the child to stay focused and feel comfortable, colored lights or interesting pictures may be shown on the screen or walls during the examination.
The ECG examination lasts approximately 15 minutes. If the patient requires a description of the electrocardiogram, it is sent to the e-mail within a few days (please inform the doctor in advance about the need for a description).
When is it needed?
An electrocardiogram (ECG) is usually recommended for children if there is a suspicion of a heart rhythm disorder or other changes in heart function. The doctor may order an ECG in the following cases:
-
the child has chest pain, palpitations or skipped heartbeats;
-
shortness of breath or difficulty breathing with exertion;
-
dizziness, fainting or loss of consciousness observed;
-
heart beats too fast, too slow or irregularly;
-
the child feels tired or weak for no apparent reason;
-
the doctor, while listening to the heart, hears a murmur or observes other changes;
-
heart rhythm monitoring is necessary in case of an already known diagnosis;
-
preventively, for example, before a child starts playing sports;
-
in other situations upon the doctor's advice.
An ECG helps both to make a diagnosis and to monitor the effectiveness of treatment or to monitor a child's heart health as they grow.
How to prepare?
An electrocardiogram for a child is a simple and quick procedure that does not require any special preparation. However, a few tips will help everything go smoothly and accurately:
-
Tell your child that the doctor will just “put little stickers on to listen to the heartbeat” – this helps reduce anxiety.
-
Bring the child's previous ECG results with you, if they were taken elsewhere – the doctor will be able to compare and assess any changes.
-
Choose clothing for your child that is easy to take off or that allows the chest, ankles, and wrists to be exposed.
-
Do not use body creams or oils on the day of the examination – they may interfere with the adhesion of the electrodes.
-
Give your child their usual medications unless the doctor has given you other instructions.
-
Before the examination, it is advisable for the child to rest, be calm, and not worry – this helps to obtain the most accurate result.
-
For younger children, you can bring a stuffed animal, book, or pacifier to help them feel safe during the procedure.
Learn how to prepare for a doctor's consultation at the Medica Riga clinic.