EKG Specialist

What is an EKG?

An electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG) is a test to detect heart problems and measure your heart’s health. The team at Doctors of Bellevue-Redmond record the electrical signals from your heart through electrodes attached to your chest.

When your heart beats, it generates an electrical impulse in your heart’s upper right chamber. An EKG records the timing and strength of these signals as they move through your heart.

What is the purpose of an EKG?

Your doctor may recommend an EKG if you experience shortness of breath, confusion, lightheadedness, chest pain, or heart palpitations. They might also perform an EKG if you’re experiencing a decline in your ability to exercise, fatigue or weakness, or have a rapid pulse.

An EKG is an easy, noninvasive way for your doctor to evaluate your heart. It can show heart attack, rhythm, rate, structural abnormalities, and blood and oxygen supply.

Heart attack

An EKG can reveal patterns that indicate if you’re having a heart attack or have had one in the past. They can also show the extent of damage and which part of your heart was affected.

Heart rhythm

When the heart’s electrical system malfunctions, it can cause heart arrhythmias (irregularities in rhythm).

Heart rate

If your heart rate is too fast, too slow, or too irregular to measure through your pulse, an EKG can provide your doctor with an accurate recording.

Structural abnormalities

An EKG can offer insight into problems, defects, or enlargements of your heart’s chambers or walls.

Blood and oxygen supply

When used while you’re having chest pains, an EKG can help your doctor understand if your pain is the result of reduced blood flow to your heart.

Electrocardiograms are also used to monitor heart disease treatments, like pacemakers.

What can I expect during my appointment?

Doctors of Bellevue-Redmond conveniently offers electrocardiograms on-site. During your EKG, your doctor attaches up to ten electrodes to your chest with adhesive patches. You might have to shave hair off the electrode site to ensure an accurate reading.

Each of the electrodes attached to your chest connects to a monitor. Your EKG is painless and only takes a few minutes. Your doctor can also provide information about your test the same day and tell you if additional tests or treatment are needed.

Call Doctors of Bellevue-Redmond today or schedule an appointment online to learn more about heart care and EKG testing.