What is an EKG – All Insurance Accepted

What is an EKG – All Insurance Accepted

An EKG, or echocardiogram (also called an ECG) is used to map the pulse rate and pattern of your heart. The diagram that is printed out can show abnormalities in your heart beat more distinctly. This is a helpful diagnostic tool that allows cardiologists to detect the early signs of heart disease more quickly. Today, we will be looking at this test in more detail. If you are preparing for an EKG, please include the following information in your research.

What your pulse says about you

Certain abnormalities within your heart have auditory indicators. This applies to conditions like:

• Heart murmurs
•  Atrial fibrillation
• Diastolic heart failure
• Heart palpitations
• Tachycardia and Bradycardia

It is possible for doctors to catch these cardiac changes during a regular physical, but the diagnosis will have to be confirmed by a cardiologist. An EKG is part of the confirmation process.

How the test works

Physically getting the test done is relatively easy. You will be asked to lie flat on an exam table. Once the treatment details have been confirmed, you’ll be hooked up to a series of 10 electrodes.

Electrode leads are placed on the:

• Arms
• Legs
• Chest

A special gel is used on the back of the leads to help the electrodes get a better read of your heart beat. A single electrode is placed on each of your extremities. Six more electrodes are placed in a crescent moon shape on the left side of your chest. When the test begins, you will be asked to breathe normally for about 10 seconds. As you breathe, a small machine will print out your pulse pattern. This printout will be evaluated by a cardiologist.

Based on the findings, you will be given a treatment protocol to help you manage your heart condition. Even if it’s done as a precautionary measure; an EKG can help detect heart problems that may otherwise remain invisible. It gives you a greater possibility of prevention.

Dr. Seldon, a Heart Doctor and Cardiologist in New York City, offers same day appointments and all testing is done on site.  Call us at (212) 367-8000.