When to Get an EKG

One of the best tools to assess heart health is the electrocardiogram. More commonly known as an EKG or ECG, this test provides important insights into how a patient’s heart functions. 

Do you think that an EKG test might be right for you? If so, Bella Terra Primary Care is here to help. We offer convenient onsite EKGs and can advise you on whether this test is recommended based on your personal health.

Learn more about when to get an EKG and what to expect when this safe and simple test is performed.

What Is an EKG?

An electrocardiogram (EKG) is a type of health test that provides a helpful heart health assessment. It’s most commonly used to check for signs of possible heart disease, but it can also detect other underlying problems, such as:

• Blocked or narrowed arteries
• Arrhythmias (irregular heart rhythms)
• Electrolyte abnormalities
• Evidence of a previous heart attack
• Effectiveness of heart disease treatments, such as pacemakers
• Heart damage
• Heart failure

This test uses small sensors with wires connected to a monitoring device to measure heart activity. The electrical signals from each heartbeat are recognized by the monitoring device, which records the data so it can be reviewed afterward.

What Happens During an EKG?

EKG tests are painless and noninvasive. At Bella Terra Primary Care, we take steps to make sure patients feel comfortable throughout the procedure, which only takes a few minutes to complete.

Here’s what to expect during your EKG appointment at Bella Terra:

1. Small sensors with an adhesive backing will be applied to the chest, arms, and legs. Occasionally, a small area will need to be shaved to make sure the sensor can be properly placed.
2. You’ll lie down on a comfortable exam table in a private room. The doctor will advise you to remain still during the test.
3. The monitoring device will be activated, allowing the sensors on your body to transmit your heart’s activity to the device. The sensors will detect your heartbeat while you lie still.
4. After a few minutes, the test will be complete and the sensors can be easily removed from your body.

The results of an EKG will reveal if you have any issues with your heart rate, heart rhythm, blood and oxygen supply to the heart, or structural issues (like a heart defect or an enlarged chamber). EKGs can also pick up evidence of heart damage or heart attacks.

Dr. Karki will discuss your EKG results with you after the test is complete. If any issues are detected, she will advise you on what steps need to be taken to address them.

How Do I Know If I Need an EKG?

EKGs aren’t typically included as part of a typical physical exam, although doctors may include them for patients with ongoing heart issues. For most people, an EKG is a separate medical service that you may need in order to address a health issue.

But how do you know if you need an EKG? One of the best ways to determine whether this test is necessary is to consider whether you’ve had any heart-related concerns lately. For example, EKG tests are often used to address the following symptoms:

• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Fatigue or weakness during physical activities
• Rapid pulse
• Heart palpitations
• Chest pain

If you’ve had any of these symptoms, talk to your doctor about scheduling an EKG. You may also want to inquire about whether you should get this test if you have a family history of heart disease.

In some cases, an EKG is a required medical test before starting certain types of jobs involving physical labor or joining professional or school sports teams. Doctors are familiar with these requirements and can help you with scheduling EKG tests to fulfill your obligations.

Where Can I Get an EKG?

There are a number of healthcare facilities which offer EKGs. Some people go to an urgent care clinic or hospital ER in order to get this test done in emergency circumstances.

If you’re getting an EKG done for heart screening purposes, you can visit a specialist like a cardiologist to have it done. This may be the preferred option for someone who needs to have an EKG performed while exercising. However, scheduling an appointment might be tricky. 

For an easier and more convenient option for a “resting” EKG where you lie still during the test, consider getting an onsite EKG at Bella Terra Primary Care. You’ll enjoy a comfortable and caring environment along with the convenience of our office’s central location in Huntington Beach. 

Wondering if you need an EKG? Call Bella Terra Primary Care at 714-248-9068 or schedule a telehealth visit to discuss your concerns with our expert team of healthcare professionals. Dr. Karki can provide a personalized recommendation and assist you in arranging for other preventive care services to improve your overall health.