Put simply it is a non-invasive test that healthcare professionals commonly do and does not run any electricity through you, it is painless and it measures the electrical activity of the heart from different angles/views.

An electrocardiogram (the ECG machine) measures the heart's electrical activity. By attaching electrodes to small sticky pads which are placed on the chest arms and legs to measure and record the heart's electrical activity from different angles. 

The electrodes are connected to the leads of the machine, the ECG then machine captures these electrical signals generated by the heart as waveforms and prints an electrocardiograph (the ECG printout). 

By looking at these waveforms we can look at the hearts rhythm and detect abnormalities, such as previous heart attacks, Atrial fibrillation (AF) or other cardiac issues that you may not be aware of.

How do I prepare for an ECG ?

Usually, there isn't any special preparation needed for an ECG, however, it's often best to: 
Wear a top that's easy to take on and off or one that you're able to expose a small area of your chest.

• Avoid applying body lotions and other products to your skin before the test
• Avoid eating a large meal or having caffeine before an ECG
• Do not smoke/vape or drink alcohol before the test
• Tell us about any medications or supplements you take
• Tell us if you've had a previous ECG and why, what were the results (so that we can compare)
• Remove any jewellery and other accessories that may interfere with the ECG leads (eg; piercings/rings bracelets/watch)
• We may require some people to shave their chest hair a little before the ECG. This is to ensure there is enough contact with the skin for electrical signals to be recorded accurately.

FAQ's

How long does it take?

As long as you need, we never rush you, but the actual ECG takes approximately 5 minutes to 10 minutes after set up 

‍What can it detect ?

The most common core cardiac rhythms seen in clinical practice (see table 1 below).

Is it accurate ?

Yes it is very accurate,  medically calibrated and serviced to deliver high quality accurate readings. The clinician is highly trained. With extensive clinical experience, ensuring a quality, accurate ECG reading, providing you with an insight into your hearts health.

Will I get the results right away and will I understand the readings?. 

Yes you'll get the results immediately.

You won't understand the ECG printout unless you can read ECG's, but don't worry the ECG will be explained in a way you'll easily understand and it will also be printed out for you (you'll also be given a detailed copy to take to your GP should you wish.)

Who needs a 12-lead ECG ?

A 12-lead ECG, screens for heart rhythm abnormalities in people who may have experienced any of the following (this is not an exhaustive list and there can be many reasons for wanting one) 

• Shortness of breath.
• Palpitations.
• Intermittent chest pain.
• Dizziness.
• Family history
• Curious (Preventative) 
• Maybe you've seen footballers and athletes having suffered a cardiac arrest 'Heart Attack' on TV and wondered why they didn't know thay had an underlaying heart condition......the simple answer is, they didn't find out untill it was too late. 
• There can be so many reasons why you might wish to have an ECG. Remember it's your life and your heart, please don't wait until something happens, prevention is always best.
• Better-Health equals a  Better Life.

More information on ECG's can be found here. If the link doesn't work, please copy and paste to your browser:

https://www.nhs.uk/tests-and-treatments/electrocardiogram

Maybe you have more questions. Please get in touch and we'll do our very best to answer them.

PLEASE NOTE: 

This is not an emergency service.

If you are have chest pains or you think you may be experiencing a heart attack you should call 999 immediately.