EKG

While heart disease is the leading cause of death, it’s a treatable disease, especially when detected early. At Care Now Medical Group in North Hollywood, California, Hayk Papukhyan, MD, Alina Ter-Grigorian, NP, and the team offer electrocardiograms (EKGs) to screen for potential heart problems. Schedule an in-office or home-based evaluation at Care Now Medical Group by calling the office or using the online booking feature today. Walk-ins are also welcome.

What is an EKG?

An EKG, or an electrocardiogram, is a diagnostic procedure that evaluates your heartbeat. It works by recording electrical signals in your heart, helping to diagnose irregular heartbeats and prior heart attacks. EKG tests show how slow or fast your heart is beating. You might be a candidate for an EKG if you’ve reached a certain age or develop symptoms of a heart problem.

What can an EKG detect?

EKGs can detect the following:

• Previous heart attack
• Irregular heartbeat
• Narrowed or blocked heart arteries
• Cause of chest pain

EKGs also help determine how well a heart disease treatment or pacemaker is working. 

Which symptoms may indicate the need for an EKG?

The Care Now Medical Group team might recommend an EKG if you experience one or more of the following symptoms:

• Fast pulse
• Chest discomfort
• Dizziness
• Confusion
• Lightheadedness
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue
• Weakness
• Skipping, fluttering, or pounding heartbeat
• Diminished ability to exercise 
• Fainting
• Blue hands and feet

You could also be a candidate for an EKG if you’ve reached a certain age or have a family history of heart disease, even if you don’t have any symptoms. 

How should I prepare for an EKG?

There’s no special preparation before undergoing an EKG. However, it’s important to tell your provider about any medications and/or supplements you’re taking and if you’ve been treated for heart disease. You might need to change into a hospital gown.

What happens during an EKG?

During an EKG test, you relax comfortably on an exam table. Your specialist places up to 12 sticky electrode patches on your chest and sometimes your legs or arms. 

Wires connect the patches to a nearby computer, where your results are displayed as waves. These waves indicate signals that travel through your heart as it beats. You must stay still and avoid talking during your EKG. 

What can I expect after an EKG?

You can return to your typical daily routine after an EKG. The Care Now Medical Group team reviews the results to assess your heart’s rate, rhythm, structure, and blood and oxygen supply. They can detect a previous heart attack and learn if any part of your heart is damaged. 

If your EKG shows irregularities, you might need additional diagnostic testing. The Care Now Medical Group experts can refer you to a heart specialist or hospital care if necessary. 

Schedule an appointment at Care Now Medical Group by phone or request one online today to learn if you’re a candidate for an EKG. Walk-ins are welcome.