Electrocardiogram
An electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) is a quick and painless procedure that checks the electrical activity in your heart. Dr Sigauke will perform an electrocardiogram during a comprehensive cardiology consultation to assess your heart health and determine any underlying factors.
What is the purpose of an ECG?
ECGs are often performed during comprehensive cardiology consultations as it's a standard procedure for detecting common heart conditions and helping to understand specific symptoms you may be experiencing.
Dr Sigauke uses ECGs to diagnose heart conditions such as:
- Arrhythmias
- The effectiveness of heart disease treatments
- Blocked or narrowed arteries
- Previous heart attacks
You may also require an ECG if you are experiencing specific symptoms, such as:
- Chest pain
- Dizziness
- Shortness of breath
- Quickened pulse
- Fatigue
Dr Sigauke may recommend an ECG screening test if you have a history of heart disease in your family, even if you are not presenting any symptoms.
What to expect during an ECG
The procedure occurs in Dr Sigauke's doctor's office at Melomed Bellville Private Hospital for outpatients and the hospital for inpatients. You will be required to change into a hospital gown before lying on your back on the patient bed. If you have hair on your chest or arms, Dr Sigauke will shave the areas, so the electrode patches don't stick.
Dr Sigauke will place 12 electrodes onto your chest and limbs to record the electrical signals in your heart, which are responsible for your heartbeat. The electrodes are connected to a monitor that records the signals and displays them in waves on paper.
Results of an ECG
After the procedure, Dr Sigauke will take you through your results and discuss possible diagnoses. He may then request further testing or provide a comprehensive treatment plan. Your treatment plan may include medications or mobile heart monitoring devices that can detect any abnormalities.