Electrocardiogram

ECG (Electrocardiogram), EKG (Electrocardiogram)

Results

An electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG) is a test that checks for problems with the electrical activity of your heart. An EKG translates the heart's electrical activity into line tracings on paper. The spikes and dips in the line tracings are called waves.

The test usually takes 5 to 10 minutes to complete.

Your doctor will look at the pattern of spikes and dips on your electrocardiogram to check the electrical activity in different parts of your heart. The spikes and dips are grouped into different sections that show how your heart is working. See a picture that explains the EKG components and intervals.

Electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG) results

Normal:	The heart beats in a regular rhythm, usually between 60 and 100 beats per minute.
	The tracing looks normal.
Abnormal:	The heart beats too slow (less than 60 beats per minute). The heart beats too fast (more than 100 beats per minute). The heart rhythm is not regular.
	The tracing does not look normal.

 

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Author:	Douglas Dana Robin Parks, MS	Last Updated: May 21, 2008
Medical Review:	E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine George Philippides, MD - Cardiology Andrew Swan, MD, CCFP, FCFP - Family Medicine
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