ecga
ecga refers to electrocardiogram, a non-invasive medical test that records the electrical activity of the heart. It is a fundamental diagnostic tool used to assess the heart's rhythm, rate, and overall electrical function. During an ecga, small electrodes are attached to the skin of the chest, arms, and legs. These electrodes detect the faint electrical impulses generated by the heart as it beats. These impulses are then amplified and displayed as a series of waves on a graph, which is interpreted by a healthcare professional. Variations in the shape, timing, and duration of these waves can indicate a wide range of cardiac conditions. Common uses of ecga include diagnosing arrhythmias, such as atrial fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia, detecting signs of a heart attack or myocardial infarction, and monitoring the effectiveness of cardiac medications or pacemakers. It is a quick, painless, and widely available procedure, making it an essential part of routine cardiac evaluations and emergency medical care.