A diagnostic test that records the electrical activity of the heart over a period of time using electrodes placed on the skin. It helps evaluate the heart’s rhythm, detect abnormalities, and diagnose cardiac conditions.
Small sensors attached to the skin that detect and transmit the electrical signals generated by the heart to the ECG machine for analysis.
The normal rhythm of the heart generated by the sinoatrial (SA) node, characterized by regular, evenly spaced electrical impulses.
Any abnormality in the heart’s rhythm, which may include irregular heartbeats, skipped beats, or rapid heart rates. Arrhythmias can be detected and characterized using an ECG.
The first wave in an ECG representing atrial depolarization, or the contraction of the atria as they pump blood into the ventricles.
A waveform in the ECG indicating ventricular depolarization, or the contraction of the ventricles as they pump blood out of the heart.
The wave in an ECG representing ventricular repolarization, or the recovery of the ventricles as they prepare for the next heartbeat.
The portion of the ECG between the end of the S wave and the beginning of the T wave, which represents the period when the ventricles are contracting and emptying blood. Changes in the ST segment can indicate myocardial ischemia or injury.
A specific combination of electrodes used to record electrical activity from different angles, providing different views of the heart’s function. Standard leads include leads I, II, and III, while augmented leads (aVR, aVL, aVF) and precordial leads (V1-V6) offer additional perspectives.
A portable device worn by patients to continuously record their heart’s electrical activity over a period of 24 to 48 hours or longer. It helps diagnose intermittent arrhythmias that may not be detected during a standard ECG.