Electrocardiogram:An electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG) is a test that records the heart's electrical activity. It's a straightforward and noninvasive procedure. During the test, electrodes are attached to the chest in a precise sequence and linked to a device that tracks the heart's electrical signals. The results typically appear as a long paper strip or a computer display showing a graph of the heart's activity. Initial diagnoses are often based on observing clinical symptoms along with specific ECG changes. An ECG can reveal areas where the heart muscle lacks oxygen or has damaged tissue. If a medication is known to potentially impact heart function negatively, a baseline ECG might be conducted before the patient begins the medication, with regular follow-up tests to monitor for any alterations.
