Reference Terms
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Electrocardiogram
An electrocardiogram, or ECG (also abbreviated EKG), is a medical test that records the electrical activity of the heart over time. It is a noninvasive and painless procedure that uses electrodes placed on the skin to detect the electrical signals generated with each heartbeat. These signals are displayed as waveforms on a monitor or printed graph, providing valuable information about the heart’s rhythm, rate, and electrical conduction.
ECGs are commonly used to diagnose a wide range of heart conditions, including arrhythmias, heart attacks, and abnormalities in heart structure. They can also help monitor the effects of medications or assess heart health before surgery. A standard ECG takes only a few minutes and is often performed in hospitals, clinics, or during routine physical exams.
Though simple and quick, the electrocardiogram is a powerful tool for detecting signs of cardiac problems, often before symptoms become apparent. It remains one of the most widely used tests in cardiovascular medicine.
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