ECG (Electrocardiography)
What is an ECG and why is it performed?
Electrocardiography (ECG) is one of the most common, safe, and informative methods for assessing heart function. It records the electrical activity of the heart and helps evaluate how it works. ECG is widely used for diagnosing cardiovascular diseases, as well as for monitoring and preventive purposes.
Each heartbeat is accompanied by electrical impulses that travel through the heart muscle. ECG records these impulses using a specialized device and displays them as a graphical tracing called an electrocardiogram. Based on the recorded data, the physician can assess heart rhythm, heart rate, conduction, obtain information about possible blood supply disturbances, and evaluate other important parameters.
ECG is considered a primary diagnostic tool and often serves as the basis for further detailed cardiac investigations.
When is an ECG recommended?
An ECG may be prescribed by a physician or performed for preventive reasons. It is particularly important in the presence of the following symptoms:
- palpitations or irregular heartbeat,
- chest pain or heaviness,
- shortness of breath or fatigue,
- dizziness or fainting,
- high blood pressure or sudden fluctuations in blood pressure,
- suspected or previously diagnosed cardiovascular disease.
ECG is frequently performed in patients with hypertension to assess its impact on the heart. It is also mandatory before surgical procedures, during pregnancy, in individuals engaged in intensive sports activities, and as part of routine preventive health check-ups.
What does an ECG show?
Electrocardiography helps detect various cardiac abnormalities, including:
- heart rhythm disorders (arrhythmias),
- conduction disturbances,
- myocardial hypertrophy,
- ischemic changes,
- signs of myocardial infarction (current or previous),
- indirect signs of electrolyte imbalance.
Although ECG does not provide a complete anatomical picture of the heart, it is an essential tool for assessing functional cardiac status and detecting potentially dangerous conditions at an early stage.
How is an ECG performed?
The ECG procedure is simple, quick, and painless. It usually takes 5–10 minutes. The patient lies comfortably while electrodes are attached to the chest, arms, and legs. These electrodes are connected to the ECG machine, which records the heart’s electrical activity.
During the test, it is important to remain still and relaxed to ensure accurate results. ECG can be performed at rest or, if indicated by the physician, during physical stress or with pharmacological testing.
ECG in children
ECG is completely safe for children of all ages. In pediatric practice, it is used to detect congenital heart defects, secondary cardiac changes, rhythm disorders, and to assess the heart’s response to physical activity. The procedure is similar to that in adults, with special attention given to the child’s comfort.
Interpretation of ECG results
ECG results are interpreted by a physician, most often a cardiologist. The specialist evaluates heart rhythm, heart rate, electrical axis, and the shape and duration of waves and intervals.
The report may indicate normal findings or various abnormalities. ECG changes are always interpreted in combination with the patient’s symptoms, clinical findings, and other diagnostic results. If necessary, additional tests such as echocardiography or Holter monitoring may be recommended.
Where to get an ECG in Yerevan
You can undergo an ECG examination in Yerevan at “Nairi” Medical Center, where the procedure is performed using modern equipment by experienced specialists. The center ensures prompt examination and accurate interpretation of results.
To schedule an appointment, please call 89 00 or visit “Nairi” Medical Center at 21 Paronyan Street.
Frequently Asked Questions
An ECG usually takes about 5–10 minutes. The actual recording is very quick, although the total time may also include preparation and reporting of the result. The test is performed while the patient is at rest.
The availability of ECG testing for children should preferably be confirmed when booking the appointment. The need for the test and the conditions under which it is performed are determined based on the child’s age, symptoms, and clinical situation.
The frequency of ECG testing depends on medical indications. If a child has cardiac symptoms, previously detected abnormalities, or requires follow-up monitoring, the physician determines how often the test should be performed. Routine repeated ECG testing is generally not necessary without a medical indication.
ECG results are usually available immediately after the test or shortly afterwards. Since the data are recorded on the spot, an initial assessment can often be made during the same visit.
An ECG assesses the heart’s electrical activity, rhythm, and conduction, while echocardiography is an ultrasound examination that shows the structure of the heart, the condition of the valves, and the contractile function of the heart muscle. These tests do not replace one another and are often used as complementary methods.
Nairi Medical Center does not provide home visits by specialists or diagnostic tests at home. To have an ECG, an appointment should be booked in advance and the patient should visit the medical center.
“Bad cardiogram” is not a medical term but a general expression. It usually refers to changes seen on an ECG that may involve heart rhythm, conduction, ischemic signs, or other abnormalities. ECG results should be interpreted by a physician together with the patient’s symptoms and other test findings.
An ECG can show certain changes characteristic of myocardial infarction, particularly in acute cases. However, an ECG alone is not always sufficient for a final diagnosis. When necessary, symptoms, blood test results, and findings from other examinations are also assessed.
An ECG can provide information about heart rhythm, heart rate, electrical conduction, certain ischemic changes, signs of cardiac muscle overload, and other conditions. It is an important screening and diagnostic tool, but its findings are always interpreted together with the overall clinical picture.
A normal ECG is characterized by a regular rhythm, an appropriate heart rate, and the absence of significant abnormalities. However, whether an ECG is considered normal should always be assessed by a physician, as some features may vary depending on age, overall health, and individual physiological differences.
Before an ECG, it is advisable to avoid strenuous physical activity and excessive consumption of coffee, energy drinks, or other stimulants if they may affect heart rhythm. It is recommended to arrive for the test in a calm, rested state. If you take any medications, the physician should be informed.
Yes, an ECG can be performed during pregnancy. It is a non-invasive test and does not use radiation. It may be indicated in cases of palpitations, shortness of breath, changes in blood pressure, or other cardiac symptoms
Yes, bronchitis itself does not prevent an ECG from being performed. In some cases, an ECG may be useful for assessing the patient’s overall condition, particularly if there are palpitations, shortness of breath, or other associated symptoms.
An ECG and a heart ultrasound are different tests with different purposes. An ECG evaluates the heart’s electrical activity, while a heart ultrasound assesses its structure and function. The physician determines which examination is needed in a particular situation, and in some cases both may be required.
Author:
Updated:
05 March 2026, 10:21Our certificates
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