An electrocardiogram, also known as an ECG or EKG, is a test that records the electrical activity of your heart.

ECGs are often performed as part of a routine physical exam, especially if you’re experiencing symptoms of heart disease. An ECG can also be used to monitor the heart’s health after a heart attack or other heart procedures. Here’s what you need to know about ECGs, how they work, and what the results may mean.

What is an electrocardiogram (ECG)?

An electrocardiogram is a simple test that assesses the electrical activity of your heart. The test is also called an ECG or EKG. During an ECG, sensors called electrodes are placed on your body. These sensors are usually placed on your chest, but they can also be placed on your wrists and ankles. The electrodes are connected to an ECG machine by wires. The machine records the electrical signals that your heart produces every time it beats. These signals are then printed out on paper or displayed on a computer screen. ECGs are often used to diagnose heart conditions and to assess the damage that has been done to the heart after a heart attack.

How does an electrocardiogram work?

Your heart is a muscle that pumps blood around your body. This muscle is made up of various types of tissue, including muscle tissue and connective tissue. The muscle tissue is responsible for the heart’s contractions. The connective tissue helps to hold the heart together and provides a pathway for the electrical signals that control the heart