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EKG (Electrocardiogram)

An electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) records the heart's electrical activity. It shows how fast the heart is beating, whether the rhythm is regular, and signs of damage or other changes. It's often the first test used to check for heart disease, and clinicians also order it for chest pain or palpitations, before surgery, or when there's a history of heart problems.

What the test is like

You lie down while small sticky patches (electrodes) are placed on your arms, legs, and chest; some hair may need to be clipped. You stay still for a short recording. The test is painless, and no electricity is sent into your body. Tell the clinician about all your medicines, and avoid exercising or drinking cold water just before the test, since both can affect results.

What it can and can't show

An EKG can point to rhythm problems, past or current heart damage, and changes in electrolytes such as potassium. But a heart problem doesn't always show up on an EKG, so a normal tracing doesn't rule everything out. Your clinician interprets the results alongside your symptoms.

Chest pain is a 911 call

If you might be having a heart attack, don't drive to urgent care for an EKG. Call 911, even if you're not sure. Emergency crews can start treatment as soon as they arrive. Warning signs include chest pressure, squeezing, or pain lasting more than a few minutes, shortness of breath, and discomfort in the arms, back, neck, jaw, or upper stomach.

Go to the ER instead if you have:

What it costs

An EKG is usually billed as a separate test on top of the visit. Ask the clinic for self-pay pricing. See the full Illinois cost guide.

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General health-services information, not medical advice. In an emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.