Electrocardiogram (EKG)

What does the EKG tell you?

The tracing shows whether your heart beats at a regular rhythm, whether it's too fast or too slow, and how the electrical signal travels between its chambers. It can also hint at extra strain from high blood pressure or damage from an earlier problem. Medical staff interpret the tracing and explain what they found in Spanish or English.

When is it done?

• A racing heartbeat for no reason, or a thump in your chest that feels like a skipped beat
• High blood pressure or diabetes that needs follow-up
• Dizziness or tiredness with effort that never used to wear you out
• A requirement before surgery, for a job or for playing a sport

How do you get ready?

• Pick a top and pants rather than a dress, so uncovering your chest is simple
• Save the body lotion for after the test: the sticky patches won't hold on oily skin
• Keep taking your medicines and bring the list
• If you have a pacemaker, say so when you arrive

What is the test like?

1. You lie face up and get comfortable.
2. Small sticky patches with wires go on your chest, wrists and ankles; if there's a lot of hair, a tiny spot is shaved.
3. For a short moment you keep still and breathe as usual while the tracing prints.
4. Once the patches are peeled off you're done: you can drive, work or eat like any other day.

When should you skip the clinic and call 911?

If you have chest pain or pressure, especially if it spreads to your arm, jaw or back, shortness of breath, a cold sweat or fainting, don't come to the clinic: call 911 right away. For a routine or required EKG, though, you can come to Airline Drive any day between 9 AM and 9 PM with the form you were given.