Overview

Electrocardiogram or ECG is test using a specialized machine. This test measures the heart beat and monitors the activities of a person's heart. Usually these machines are found at diagnostic centres and hospitals, but now, small portable variations can also be used at home.

A doctor may recommend an ECG for people who may be at risk of heart disease because there is a family history of heart disease, or because they smoke, are overweight, or have diabetes, high cholesterol or high blood pressure. They may also recommend an ECG if a person is experiencing symptoms such as: chest pain.

What is the normal ECG report ?

Normal range 120 – 200 ms (3 – 5 small squares on ECG paper). QRS duration (measured from first deflection of QRS complex to end of QRS complex at isoelectric line). Normal range up to 120 ms (3 small squares on ECG paper).

How long does a ECG test take ?

An electrocardiogram (ECG) is a test that records the electrical activity of the heart. The ECG reflects what's happening in different areas of the heart and helps identify any problems with the rhythm or rate of your heart. The ECG is painless and takes around 5-10 minutes to perform.