Why Might You Need an ECG as Advised by Our Cardiologist in Marbella
11/03/2019An electrocardiogram (ECG) is a test which records the electrical activity of your heart when it's resting. Our cardiologist in Marbella will often use them to gain insight into how your heart is working, its resting rhythm and to identify any enlargements. These enlargements may be caused by high blood pressure or previous heart attacks. What an ECG can't show our cardiology team is whether your heart arteries are blocked. They also can't predict your risk of heart attacks in the future.
Our cardiologist in Marbella will usually suggest you have an ECG if you have a number of the risk factors for heart disease, such as:
- high blood pressure
- heart palpitations
- recurring chest pain.
In most cases, our cardiologists won't recommend an ECG if you don't show many of these symptoms or risk factors for heart disease. This is because the test isn't particularly useful in routine checkups if you're not exhibiting any risk factors or symptoms. In these cases, there are other tests which are more appropriate.
When Are ECGs Needed?
Your cardiologist will probably recommend an ECG if your heart has become enlarged as a result of a previous heart attack or because of your high blood pressure.
You will also be recommended for an ECG if you are experiencing symptoms such as:
- recurring chest pain
- shortness of breath
- irregular heartbeat
- dizziness
- weakness or fatigue that leaves you unable to exercise
- rapid pulse
- heavy heartbeat.
Your employer may also suggest you have an ECG depending on your line of work, for example, if your work requires a certain level of physical fitness. You'll also be more likely to need an ECG if you have a family history of diabetes or heart disease.
Why Would I Have This Test?
ECGs are one of the most common tests carried out by our cardiologist in Marbella. In many cases, they're the ideal way of identifying underlying issues with the heart's electrical output.
An ECG is one of the most useful tools for ruling out problems and is often the first step in the basic investigation of your heart's health.
An ECG test is painless and noninvasive, which makes it a really popular test amongst both patients and cardiologists. It can be carried out on patients of all ages, helping to detect any of the following issues:
- heart arrhythmias (irregular heart rhythms)
- structural issues, such as issues with the chambers of your heart
- monitoring the effectiveness of ongoing treatments such as a pacemaker.
What does an ECG involve?
ECGs are very simple tests. They involve using electrodes to record up to twelve different views of your heart in order to provide a full picture of its activity. Because the test is simple and noninvasive you won't need to undergo any preparations for it. Electrodes will be attached to your ankle, wrist and chest using sticky pads. You will then be asked to lie flat with your head and chest raised slightly. It's important that you try to relax during the test to give an accurate assessment of your resting heart rate - our cardiologist will usually give you a few minutes to help you relax to ensure this.
If you’ve noticed any of the symptoms mentioned above and feel you would benefit from an ECG, make an appointment with our cardiologist in Marbella today.