We provide ambulatory services as follows:
An electrocardiogram, also known as an ECG, is a simple, painless test that measures the electrical activity of the heart. It is one of the most common and important tests used to diagnose heart problems.
How does an ECG work?
The heart beats because of electrical signals. When these signals are interrupted or abnormal, it can cause heart rhythm problems or other heart problems. An ECG records these electrical signals and displays them as a graph.
What happens during an ECG?
During an ECG, you will lie on a table or bed with your shirt off. The test is usually done by trained technicians and involves placing small, sticky electrodes (patches) on your chest, arms, and legs. The electrodes are connected to an ECG machine, which records the electrical signals from your heart. The electrical activity is recorded as waves on a graph, with different patterns corresponding to each electrical phase of the heartbeat .
The ECG test usually takes about 10 minutes and the results are almost immediate. You will not feel anything during the test, but may experience minor discomfort, similar to removing a bandage, when the electrodes are removed.
What does an ECG show?
An ECG can show the following:
Why is an ECG done?
An ECG may be done for a variety of reasons, including:
Are there any risks associated with an ECG?
The test is very safe and there is no risk of electrical shock during it because the electrodes used do not produce electricity.
What should I expect after an ECG?
After your EKG, the cardiac technician will remove the electrodes from your skin. You may go back to your usual activities right away.
Your doctor will review your ECG results and talk to you about what they mean. If your ECG shows any signs of heart problems, your doctor may order further tests or recommend treatment.
A treadmill exercise test, also known as a stress test or TMX, is a test that measures how well your heart responds to exercise and helps diagnose coronary artery disease and abnormal heart rhythms. It is a non-invasive test, meaning that no needles or surgery are involved.
Why is a treadmill exercise test done?
A TMX may be done for a variety of reasons, including:
How is a treadmill exercise test done?
Prior to the test, medications should be discussed with the patient beforehand, as some drugs such as beta-blockers, calcium-channel blockers, digoxin, and anti-arrhythmic medications can affect the maximal heart rate achieved. An ischemic response can also be affected if patients are taking nitrates. A thorough history and physical examination should be performed on all patients before referral for exercise stress testing
During a treadmill exercise test, you will walk/jog on a treadmill while your heart rate, rhythm, and blood pressure are monitored. The treadmill will start at a slow speed and incline, and the speed and incline will gradually increase throughout the test (Bruce Protocol). You will be asked to exercise until you reach your maximum heart rate or until you develop symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness.
The entire test usually takes about 15-30 minutes.
What to expect before, during, and after a treadmill exercise test
Before the test:
You will be asked to remove all or most of your clothing and put on a gown.
The technician will place small, sticky electrodes (patches) on your chest, arms, and legs. The electrodes are connected to an ECG machine, which records the electrical signals from your heart.
The technician will also measure your blood pressure and heart rate.
During the test:
You will be asked to walk on a treadmill at a slow speed and incline. The speed and incline will gradually increase throughout the test.
The technician will monitor your heart rate, rhythm, and blood pressure.
You will be asked to stop the test if you develop any symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness.
After the test:
You will be asked to rest for a few minutes.
The technician will remove the electrodes from your skin.
You may go back to your usual activities right away.
Risks of a treadmill exercise test
The risks associated with a treadmill exercise test are generally low. Complications are rare but may include low blood pressure, irregular heart rhythms, or a heart attack. Your health doctor will provide instructions on how to prepare for your stress test.
You may be asked not to eat, drink, or smoke for at least three hours before the examination, as this maximizes exercise capacity.
Talk to your doctor about whether a treadmill exercise test is right for you.