(ECG Test Kya Hota Hai) What is an ECG Test?
An ECG is a medical test that records the electrical signals in the heart. With each heartbeat, an electrical impulse (or wave) travels through the heart, causing it to contract and pump blood. The ECG captures these impulses and translates them into a visual representation, typically shown as a series of waves on graph paper or a digital screen.
How Does an ECG Work?
During an ECG procedure, small sensors called electrodes are attached to the skin on the chest, arms, and legs. These electrodes detect the electrical impulses produced by the heart and transmit them to the ECG machine, which records the data and creates a graphical representation. The typical waveforms observed in an ECG include:
- P wave: Represents the atrial contraction (depolarization).
- QRS complex: Depicts the ventricular contraction (depolarization).
- T wave: Reflects the heart’s recovery phase (repolarization).
Types of ECG Tests
Resting ECG: Performed while the patient is lying down and relaxed.
Stress ECG (Exercise ECG): Conducted while the patient exercises on a treadmill or stationary bike to monitor the heart’s response to physical activity.
Holter Monitor: A portable ECG device worn for 24-48 hours to track heart activity over an extended period.
Event Monitor: Used for intermittent recording when patients experience symptoms.
Why is an ECG Important?
An ECG is often the first step in diagnosing various heart conditions, including:
Arrhythmias: Irregular heart rhythms.
Coronary Artery Disease: Blockages in the heart’s blood supply.
Heart Attacks: Evidence of damage to the heart muscle.
Electrolyte Imbalances: Abnormal levels of minerals affecting heart function.
When Should You Get an ECG?
Doctors may recommend an ECG if you experience:
Chest pain
Shortness of breath
Dizziness or fainting
Palpitations
Unexplained fatigue
How to Prepare for an ECG
Preparation for an ECG is simple:
Wear loose, comfortable clothing.
Avoid using lotions or oils on the skin, as they can interfere with electrode adhesion.
Inform your doctor of any medications you are taking.
(ECG Report Kaise Dekhe) Interpreting ECG Results
ECG results are interpreted by a cardiologist or a trained medical professional. A normal ECG shows a consistent rhythm and typical wave patterns. Abnormal results may indicate heart disease, electrolyte imbalances, or other conditions requiring further investigation.
How to Interpret ECG Test Results
Interpreting ECG results requires understanding the different waveforms and intervals. A trained medical professional typically evaluates:
Heart Rate: Normal resting heart rate ranges from 60 to 100 beats per minute.
Rhythm: Regular or irregular pattern of the heartbeats.
P wave: Consistency and shape of the atrial contraction signal.
PR Interval: The time taken for the electrical impulse to travel from the atria to the ventricles (normal range: 0.12 to 0.20 seconds).
QRS Complex: Duration and shape of the ventricular contraction signal (normal range: less than 0.12 seconds).
ST Segment and T Wave: Signs of ischemia or other abnormalities.
ECG Test Normal Range
For most individuals, the normal ranges in an ECG test include:
Heart Rate: 60-100 beats per minute
PR Interval: 0.12-0.20 seconds
QRS Duration: Less than 0.12 seconds
QT Interval: 0.35-0.45 seconds (varies with heart rate)
Any deviation from these values may suggest an underlying heart condition that requires further evaluation.