Resting Electrocardiogram
Who: It is recommended for patients who are advised by their doctor to monitor the activity of their heart.
What: It is a non-invasive (does not require an incision into the body) test that records the electrical activity of the heart. The electrical activity is related to the impulses that travel through the heart that determines the heart rate and rhythm.
Why: It may be done to help find the cause of symptoms such as palpitations or chest pain. It can also help detect heart disorders such as abnormal heart rhythms and heart attack.
When: It is often performed when patients complain about lightheadedness, palpitations or passing out.
How: It is performed by attaching 10 electrodes to your arms, legs and chest. These electrodes will help to detect and conduct electrical currents of your heart. For men with hairy chest, electrodes might not be able stick properly thus, requiring the chest area to be shaved off.