You may be advised to get an EKG if you are experiencing symptoms that could indicate a Heart problem, such as Chest pain, Shortness of breath, Dizziness, or Palpitations. The test is also commonly performed if you have risk factors for heart disease, including high blood pressure, a family history of heart disease, or if you smoke. EKGs can be used both as a diagnostic tool to investigate current symptoms and as a screening measure to monitor heart health, particularly in individuals with known cardiovascular conditions.

In some cases, an EKG is recommended before undergoing surgery to ensure that the Heart is functioning properly and to minimize the risk of complications. Athletes, especially those engaging in high-intensity sports, may also have an EKG as part of routine health checks to rule out underlying heart conditions that could be triggered by physical exertion. The test is fast, painless, and offers valuable information about the heart's condition, making it a widely used tool in preventive and diagnostic cardiology.

No, an EKG is neither painful nor invasive. The procedure involves placing small adhesive electrodes on the skin of the chest, arms, and legs to record the heart's electrical activity. The electrodes are connected to wires that transmit the signals to the EKG machine, which produces a graph of the heart’s electrical activity. The entire process is painless, and no needles or injections are involved. The test is also non-invasive, meaning that no instruments are inserted into the body, making it a very safe and straightforward diagnostic tool.

Patients may feel a slight cool sensation when the electrodes are applied, and they are usually asked to remain still during the procedure to ensure accurate readings. Since the test only takes about 5 to 10 minutes, it causes little to no discomfort. After the test, the electrodes are easily removed, and there is no recovery time needed. This makes the EKG a highly accessible and convenient test for patients of all ages, including children and the elderly.