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What Is an ECG?

An electrocardiogram (ECG) is a medical diagnostic test that monitors and records the electrical activity and rhythm of the heart. It is safe and painless, and is one of the most commonly performed test at a heart clinic in Singapore.

Why Is ECG Done?

An ECG is administered to help heart doctors in Singapore identify the cause of cardiovascular disease symptoms such as chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, dizziness, fast or irregular heartbeats, fainting, and palpitations. Through this, ECGs can help detect arrhythmias, coronary heart disease, heart attacks and cardiomyopathy. ECGs are also performed on people who are predisposed to developing heart disease due to genetics, smoking, obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol.

How Does an ECG Work?

A Singapore cardiologist will stick electrodes or sensors to the patient’s chest. These sensors are small plastic patches with wires that are connected to an ECG machine. The electrodes are able to identify electric signals that are generated by the heart every time it beats. These electric signals will then be recorded, measured, and interpreted by the doctor from the screen of a monitor or from a piece of paper to learn more about the rhythm and condition of the heart’s patients.

Types of ECGs and Their Purpose

  • Holter monitor (Ambulatory ECG): This is a type of portable and wearable ECG that reads the electrical activity of the heart for 24 hours or longer. Patients use this while they are away from the clinic, and performing their regular activities at work, home, or school.
  • Implantable loop recorder: This type of heart-monitoring device is sometimes called a cardiac event recorder. This enables patients to record their heart’s electrical activity for up to three years. Doctors recommend this if they have frequent episodes of palpitations or fainting, and other tests have not been able to provide any answers. This device also helps doctors remotely monitor the electrical activity in the hearts of their patients.
  • Resting ECG: This type of ECG records the electrical activity of the patient’s heart while he or she is at rest. Movements are not allowed during this type of ECG, as other muscles can produce electrical impulses that can interrupt the ones created by the heart.
  • Exercise ECG: This type of test checks the heart’s response to stress and exercise. Here, the patient’s electrical activity is monitored while he or she is running on a treadmill or using a stationary bike.

What Are the Benefits of ECG?

As a simple, accurate and non-invasive test that measures the electrical activity of the heart, its benefits include:

  • Preventing heart attacks by studying heart parameters during the first stage
  • Identifying the root problem of chest pain and palpitations
  • Checking the cardiac condition of patients before and after having surgery, as well as after administering an anaesthetic
  • Monitoring and checking heart rates that are too fast or too slow
  • Checking for irregular heartbeats such as skipped and extra beats
  • Determining whether or not a heart medication is effective
  • Assessing how a pacemaker is working

How Should I Prepare for an ECG?

Be sure to inform your cardiologist on any medicines that you may be taking, and keep your chest clean and dry. Sometimes, the skin may be shaved if it obstructs the electrodes from firmly sticking to the skin. Otherwise, an ECG is a very simple test that generally does not require any special preparation beforehand.

What Should I Expect after an ECG?

You can expect to resume normal activities immediately after. Your doctor may evaluate and discuss your ECG results with you on the spot, and formulate a treatment plan or further testing, if needed.

Ace Cardiology Clinic conducts comprehensive consultations and cardiac examinations, including ECGs. For more information, call 9155 2942 today.

When faced with a new heart disease diagnosis, you can benefit from a cardiac second opinion. This valuable service allows you to know that your diagnosis is correct and provides information about your treatment choices.
To schedule a meeting, please call 9155 2942 or fill up the form below
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3 Mount Elizabeth, #17-18
Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre
Singapore 228510

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Sat: 9:00am-12:00pm
Sun & PH: Closed

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Tel: 6235 7536 | 9155 2942
Fax: 6235 7598
info@acecardiologyclinic.com

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