ECG

Quick, painless electrocardiogram to check your heart's rhythm and electrical activity.

An electrocardiogram (ECG) records the electrical activity of your heart. It helps your doctor check your heart rhythm and look for signs of heart strain or damage.

Why you might need an ECG

  • Chest pain, palpitations, dizziness or fainting
  • High blood pressure or diabetes
  • Before surgery or as part of a health check-up
  • Follow-up of a known heart condition

What happens during the test

Small sticky pads are placed on your chest, arms and legs and connected to the ECG machine. You lie still for a short time while the recording is taken. It is painless and the whole test usually takes 5 to 10 minutes.

Specialist for this service

Common questions

Avoid applying oil or lotion to your chest on the day, and wear a top that is easy to remove.

A normal ECG is reassuring, but it does not rule out every heart problem. Depending on your symptoms, your doctor may also recommend an echo or other tests.

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