What is EGC?

What is ECG? 

ECG stands for Electrocardiogram. It is a medical test that measures the electrical activity of the heart. 

During an ECG, electrodes are placed on specific locations on the chest, arms and legs. These detect the signals generated by the heart as it beats. The signals are then amplified and recorded by a machine, which produces an ECG graph. 

By analysing the graph, healthcare professionals can assess the heart’s rhythm, detect abnormalities in the electrical activity and diagnose various heart conditions. 

Some common conditions that can be identified through an ECG include: 

• Heart attacks

• Arrhythmias

• Heart valve problems

• Electrolyte imbalances

ECGs are non-invasive, painless and typically only take a few minutes to perform. They are widely used in many medical settings, including hospitals, clinics and doctors offices as a routine diagnostic tool. 

Different types of ECG 

There are different types of ECGs that can be performed on the specific needs of the patient and the information required by the healthcare professional. Here are some of the common types: 

1. Resting ECG: The most common type. Performed while the patient is at rest, lying down or sitting. It provides a baseline measurement.

2. Exercise Stress Test: While the patient exercises on a treadmill or stationary bike. Used to assess cardiac function, detect blockages in the coronary arteries and evaluate exercise tolerance.

3. Holter monitor: A portable device that continuously records the heart's activity over a 24-hour or longer period. It is used to assess cardiac rhythm over an expanded period. It is used to assess cardiac rhythm over an extended period.

4. Event monitor: Portable device that records the heart’s electrical activity. The patient activates the device when experiencing symptoms.

5. Ambulatory ECG: Portable device that records activity, typically 24 to 48 hours. 

6. Signal-Averaged ECG: Technique is used to analyse very small signals. It is often used to assess the risk of arrhythmias, particularly in patients with certain heart conditions or a history of sudden cardiac arrest. 

These are just a few examples of the different ECGs that can be performed. The type of ECG used will depend on the patient’s symptoms, medical history and the information required for diagnosis or monitoring. 

When is the initial ECG received? 

Here are some common scenarios where a person might undergo an initial ECG: 

1. Routine Check-up: Establish a baseline measurement of the individual's heart health, especially if they have reached a certain age or have other risk factors for cardiovascular disease. 

2. Symptoms of heart problems: Can help evaluate the electrical activity of the heart and determine if there are any abnormalities.

3. Pre-Surgical Evaluation: Part of the pre-operative assessments to ensure the individual's heart is functioning properly.

4. Suspected heart disease: If the person has risk factors, an initial ECG may be performed to evaluate the heart’s activity and detect any signs of heart disease. 

5. Screening for specific conditions: Assess the risk of sudden cardiac death in certain individuals. 

ECG and the Coremed device 

The Coremed is equipped with a range of innovative features with one of its main highlights being ECG. The device offers the flexibility of choosing between 3,5 and 12 lead ECG options. Additionally, the device is lightweight and portable design makes the device better suited to conducting ECG tests in all environments. The ease of movement and transportation contribute to the Coremed’s convenience and practicality.