An electrocardiogram is one of the simplest and most common tests used to check the heart’s electrical activity. Often called an EKG or ECG, it records the timing and strength of electrical signals that control each heartbeat. This information helps providers detect heart rhythm problems, signs of heart disease, and other conditions that may require treatment.
Epic Cardiology supports heart health across the Greater Los Angeles area, with clinics available in Chino, Pomona, San Dimas, Sherman Oaks, Lynwood, and Inglewood.
What Is an Electrocardiogram?
An electrocardiogram is a painless, non-invasive test that measures the heart’s electrical activity using sensors called electrodes. During the test:
- Several small, sticky patches are placed on the chest, arms, and legs.
- Wires connect the patches to an EKG machine.
- The machine records your heart’s electrical signals as waves on a monitor or paper.
These patterns can reveal whether your heart is beating normally, beating too fast or too slow, or showing signs of strain.
Why Would My Provider Recommend This Test?
An EKG may be recommended if you have:
- Chest pain or pressure.
- Shortness of breath.
- Heart palpitations or irregular heartbeats.
- Dizziness, fainting, or fatigue without a clear cause.
- A history of heart disease or risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol.
It is also commonly used as part of a routine checkup for people with known heart conditions or before surgery.
Benefits of an Electrocardiogram
- Quick and Painless – The test usually takes only a few minutes and involves no discomfort.
- Non-Invasive – No needles, radiation, or recovery time required.
- Early Detection – Can identify heart problems before symptoms become severe.
- Monitors Heart Health – Tracks changes in heart rhythm or function over time.
- Guides Treatment – Helps providers decide on next steps, whether that is medication, further testing, or lifestyle changes.
How Should I Prepare?
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows access to your chest.
- Avoid lotions or oils on your skin before the test, as they can interfere with the electrodes.
- Your provider will let you know if any medication adjustments are needed.
What Happens During the Test?
Step 1: Preparation
- You will lie on an exam table.
- Electrodes are placed on your chest, arms, and legs.
Step 2: Recording
- You remain still and breathe normally while the EKG records your heart’s electrical activity.
- The process usually takes less than five minutes.
Step 3: Completion
- The electrodes are removed, and you can resume normal activities immediately.
Is It Safe?
Yes. An electrocardiogram is completely safe. It does not send electricity into your body and has no side effects.
When Will I Get My Results?
In many cases, your provider can review the EKG immediately and discuss the findings during your appointment. If abnormalities are found, additional tests may be recommended to gather more information.
Get Clarity About Your Heart Health with Epic Cardiology
If you are experiencing symptoms such as chest discomfort, palpitations, or dizziness, an electrocardiogram can provide valuable insight into your heart’s health. It is a fast, safe, and effective way to detect potential problems and guide the right treatment plan.
Serving the Greater Los Angeles area, Epic Cardiology has clinics in Chino, Pomona, San Dimas, Sherman Oaks, Lynwood, and Inglewood. Contact us today to schedule your test and take an important step toward protecting your heart health.
An electrocardiogram is one of the simplest and most common tests used to check the heart’s electrical activity. Often called an EKG or ECG, it records the timing and strength of electrical signals that control each heartbeat. This information helps providers detect heart rhythm problems, signs of heart disease, and other conditions that may require treatment.
Epic Cardiology supports heart health across the Greater Los Angeles area, with clinics available in Chino, Pomona, San Dimas, Sherman Oaks, Lynwood, and Inglewood.
What Is an Electrocardiogram?
An electrocardiogram is a painless, non-invasive test that measures the heart’s electrical activity using sensors called electrodes. During the test:
- Several small, sticky patches are placed on the chest, arms, and legs.
- Wires connect the patches to an EKG machine.
- The machine records your heart’s electrical signals as waves on a monitor or paper.
These patterns can reveal whether your heart is beating normally, beating too fast or too slow, or showing signs of strain.
Why Would My Provider Recommend This Test?
An EKG may be recommended if you have:
- Chest pain or pressure.
- Shortness of breath.
- Heart palpitations or irregular heartbeats.
- Dizziness, fainting, or fatigue without a clear cause.
- A history of heart disease or risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol.
It is also commonly used as part of a routine checkup for people with known heart conditions or before surgery.
Benefits of an Electrocardiogram
- Quick and Painless – The test usually takes only a few minutes and involves no discomfort.
- Non-Invasive – No needles, radiation, or recovery time required.
- Early Detection – Can identify heart problems before symptoms become severe.
- Monitors Heart Health – Tracks changes in heart rhythm or function over time.
- Guides Treatment – Helps providers decide on next steps, whether that is medication, further testing, or lifestyle changes.
How Should I Prepare?
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows access to your chest.
- Avoid lotions or oils on your skin before the test, as they can interfere with the electrodes.
- Your provider will let you know if any medication adjustments are needed.
What Happens During the Test?
Step 1: Preparation
- You will lie on an exam table.
- Electrodes are placed on your chest, arms, and legs.
Step 2: Recording
- You remain still and breathe normally while the EKG records your heart’s electrical activity.
- The process usually takes less than five minutes.
Step 3: Completion
- The electrodes are removed, and you can resume normal activities immediately.
Is It Safe?
Yes. An electrocardiogram is completely safe. It does not send electricity into your body and has no side effects.
When Will I Get My Results?
In many cases, your provider can review the EKG immediately and discuss the findings during your appointment. If abnormalities are found, additional tests may be recommended to gather more information.
Get Clarity About Your Heart Health with Epic Cardiology
If you are experiencing symptoms such as chest discomfort, palpitations, or dizziness, an electrocardiogram can provide valuable insight into your heart’s health. It is a fast, safe, and effective way to detect potential problems and guide the right treatment plan.
Serving the Greater Los Angeles area, Epic Cardiology has clinics in Chino, Pomona, San Dimas, Sherman Oaks, Lynwood, and Inglewood. Contact us today to schedule your test and take an important step toward protecting your heart health.