Resting ECG (Electrocardiogram)

Resting ECG

Quick and painless heart rhythm recording at rest

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An electrocardiogram (ECG) — sometimes called a 12-lead ECG or EKG — is a recording of the heart’s electrical signals. Stickers are placed on the chest, arms and legs and connected to a machine that produces a real-time visual trace of heart activity.

An ECG helps diagnose a wide range of heart conditions, including abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias), previous heart attacks, thickening of the heart muscle from high blood pressure, and other signs of heart muscle disease (cardiomyopathy).

As well as a standard resting ECG, it’s also possible to perform one during exercise, or to wear a portable monitor for extended heart rhythm recording.

What To Expect

Your resting ECG test typically includes:

  • What it detects: Cardiac arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats), signs of previous "silent" heart attacks, and conduction delays.
  • The Process: Small adhesive sensors are placed on the chest, arms, and legs. This 5-minute test provides a "snapshot" of heart health and serves as the baseline for all subsequent tests.