Electrocardiogram (ECG)
An electrocardiogram (ECG) records the entirety of the electrical activity of all heart muscle fibers. A distinction is made between temporary and permanent recordings. The examination makes it possible to detect disturbances in the heart’s action. Electrodes placed on the body record the activities in the form of a curve. The curve or its deflections represent the individual phases of a heartbeat.
Electrodiagrams can be distinguised into two types of examination: Resting ECG and Exercise ECG. As a rule, a resting ECG is performed lying down in order to record the activity at a relaxed time. The duration is approximately two minutes. Exercise ECGs, on the other hand, require physical activity so that the heart action can be recorded under considerable exertion.
Generally, an ECG is performed when medical professionals need information on rhythm and frequency. In addition, the ECG provides information about the excitation formation, propagation or regression of the heart.
