An ECG is a simple test to check your heart rhythm and electrical activity.
Sensors are attached to the skin and used to detect the electrical signals produced by each heartbeat.
Signals are recorded by a machine and looked at by a consultant cardiologist to see if they are unusual.
An ECG would typically be used alongside other tests to help diagnose and monitor any conditions of the heart.
If there are any signs or symptoms of possible heart problems, it will also be used to detect these. These symptoms could include chest pain, palpitations, dizziness and shortness of breath.
An ECG can help detect:
• Arrhythmias
• Coronary heart disease
• Heart attack
• Cardiomyopathy
As explained above, an ECG is a quick and painless test with no electricity being put into your body.
As the sensor pads are sticky, there may be some discomfort when these pads are removed.
Some people may notice a mild rash where the sticky pads have been, but this should subside after a while.