Electrocardiogram (ECG) procedures play a pivotal role in diagnosing and monitoring heart conditions. The ECG, a non-invasive test, records the electrical activity of the heart over a specific period, providing valuable insights into its rhythm and functionality. Your doctor can determine whether you’ve had a heart attack, heart failure, or cardiac damage with an ECG test. 

What is an Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG)?

An electrocardiogram, also called ECG or EKG, is a method of collecting information to identify a heart condition. This is one of the simplest and quickest ways to detect heart problems and monitor’s health.

Temporary electrodes which are placed on your chest and limbs during an electrocardiogram to track, monitor, and record your heart’s electrical activity—which regulates your heartbeats—for diagnostic purposes. 

Information is converted by a computer into a wave pattern that your doctor can understand. This is a rapid, painless, noninvasive test. An EKG can be obtained during a stress test while you're exercising or while you're lying down and resting.

Why Do You Need Electrocardiograms?

Many common heart diseases can be diagnosed non-invasively and painlessly with an ECG. An ECG could be used by a medical professional to ascertain or identify:

• Heart rhythm abnormalities, or arrhythmias.
• If heart attacks or chest discomfort are being brought on by clogged or narrowed heart arteries (coronary artery disease),
• If you've previously experienced a heart attack.
• The effectiveness of various heart disease therapies, including a pacemaker

If you have any of the following symptoms or indicators, an ECG may be necessary:

• Chest ache.
• Feeling lightheaded, dizzy, or confused.
• Palpitations in the heart.
• Quick heartbeat.
• Breathing difficulties.
• Weakness, exhaustion, or a reduction in your capacity to exercise.

Electrocardiograms are not recommended for low-risk persons without symptoms. Even though you may not currently have any symptoms, your healthcare professional may nonetheless recommend an EKG if you have a family history of heart disease.

What Happens Before Electrocardiograms?

Before the procedure, your doctor or technician will go over the medications you take. Inform your physician about all of the vitamins, herbs, supplements, and medications you take, both prescription and over-the-counter.

You are free to eat and drink as usual prior to an EKG. Don't apply lotions or creams with oily or greasy skin the day of the test. They inhibit the electrodes' ability to properly contact your skin. 

Since the electrodes must be positioned directly on your legs, stay away from full-length pantyhose. Put on a shirt that you can quickly take off so you can put the leads on your chest.

When you're prepared, you'll usually be requested to lie down on a bed or examination table. It might be required of you to change into a hospital gown. 

How Long Does It Take to Have an ECG Fitted?

Usually, it takes about 5-10 minutes, and the actual recording just takes a few seconds. 

An ECG can be performed at a hospital or in the office of a doctor. You can have an electrocardiogram (ECG) during your hospital stay or as an outpatient procedure. 

First, any jewelry or other items that can disrupt the test will need to be taken off. You'll be required to take off everything up to your waist. 

For the test, you will lie flat on a table or bed. It's crucial that you stay still and silent throughout the ECG to prevent interfering with the trace. 

In order to ensure that up to 12 electrodes adhere closely to the skin, the technician may choose to shave or trim small patches of hair if your arms, legs, or chest are too hairy.

You will have electrodes affixed to your arms, legs, and chest. The electrodes will be connected to the lead cables.

The technician may enter personal information about you into the machine's computer after the leads are connected. The ECG is going to begin. The tracing will be done in a short amount of time. The technician will disconnect the leads and take out the skin electrodes after the tracing is finished.

What Are The Risks of ECG?

An ECG is a safe test to do. Since the electrodes used in the test don't generate electricity, there is no chance of receiving an electrical shock. The electrodes solely capture the heart's electrical activity.

As with removing a bandage, you can experience some mild discomfort when the electrodes are taken out. A little rash may appear where the patches were applied in certain individuals.

What Can You Expect After ECG?

Unless your doctor advises otherwise, you should be able to resume your regular activities and diet. After an ECG, special care is typically not required.

Inform your physician of any new symptoms you experience, such as shortness of breath, dizziness, fainting, or chest discomfort, that you experienced before to the ECG.

Afterwards, depending on your specific circumstances, your doctor might give you further advice.

How Much Does an ECG Cost?

The estimated average for electrocardiograms in Indonesia costs from IDR 160.000.

At Bali International Hospital, we believe that wellness is unrivaled to heal your body, mind, and soul. Hence being one of the centers of excellence, our cardiology center at Bali International Hospital committed to prioritize your aesthetic by offering comprehensive assessments and treatments.

Our services include preventive care, early detection, diagnostics, and treatment of a wide range of cardiology problems with unparalleled expertise and cutting-edge medical technology right in the heart of Bali.

Let’s schedule your appointment at Bali International Hospital now!