At SHIFAA PAN African Hospital, we offer electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) testing as part of our comprehensive cardiac diagnostic services. An electrocardiogram is a non-invasive test that records the electrical activity of the heart, providing valuable information about heart rate, rhythm, and any potential abnormalities. Our skilled cardiologists and technicians use state-of-the-art equipment to perform ECG tests accurately and efficiently, helping to diagnose and manage various heart conditions.

Test Overview:

An electrocardiogram measures the electrical impulses generated by the heart as it contracts and relaxes, producing characteristic wave patterns on a graph known as an electrocardiogram. During the test, small electrodes (sticky patches) are placed on the skin of the chest, arms, and legs, which detect and transmit the electrical signals to the ECG machine. The ECG machine then records these signals and displays them as waves on a computer monitor or paper printout. The resulting electrocardiogram provides valuable information about the heart’s electrical activity, including:

• Heart rate: The number of heartbeats per minute (bpm).
• Heart rhythm: The regularity or irregularity of heartbeats.
• Heart conduction: The speed and direction of electrical impulses through the heart.
• Abnormalities: Any deviations from the normal ECG pattern that may indicate underlying heart conditions or abnormalities.

Indications for ECG Testing:

Electrocardiograms are commonly performed to:

• Assess heart rhythm abnormalities, such as atrial fibrillation, ventricular tachycardia, or heart block.
• Evaluate symptoms such as chest pain, palpitations, dizziness, or fainting episodes.
• Screen for heart conditions during routine health check-ups or preoperative assessments.
• Monitor the effects of medications or treatments on heart function.
• Diagnose or monitor the progression of various heart diseases, including coronary artery disease, myocardial infarction (heart attack), or heart failure.

Procedure:

The ECG test is quick, painless, and typically takes only a few minutes to complete. Patients may be asked to lie down on an examination table, and the electrodes will be attached to specific areas of the body using adhesive patches. The test does not involve any needles or injections, and there are no known risks or side effects associated with ECG testing. During the test, patients are usually asked to remain still and breathe normally to ensure accurate recordings. The ECG machine will record the heart’s electrical activity for a brief period, and the results will be reviewed and interpreted by a qualified cardiologist.

Interpretation and results:

Once the ECG test is completed, the resulting electrocardiogram will be analyzed by a cardiologist to assess heart rate, rhythm, and any abnormalities. The interpretation of the ECG findings will help guide further diagnostic evaluation or treatment recommendations, if necessary.

Common ECG findings may include:

• Normal sinus rhythm: Regular heart rate and rhythm within normal limits.
• Arrhythmias: Abnormal heart rhythms, such as atrial fibrillation, ventricular tachycardia, or heart block.
• Conduction abnormalities: Irregularities in the electrical conduction system of the heart.
• Ischemic changes: Signs of reduced blood flow to the heart muscle, suggestive of coronary artery disease or myocardial infarction.

Based on the ECG results and clinical assessment, additional tests or treatments may be recommended to further evaluate or manage any identified heart conditions.

At SHIFAA PAN African Hospital, our experienced cardiology team is dedicated to providing accurate and reliable ECG testing to help diagnose and manage various heart conditions. If you or a loved one requires an electrocardiogram, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with us for expert cardiac care and support.