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If you need diagnostic testing for chest pain, shortness of breath, or other heart-related symptoms, you may be a candidate for an electrocardiogram (EKG). To help you get a fast and accurate diagnosis, Greenbrook Medical offers on-site EKG testing. Prakash Machhar, MD and Raj Machhar, MD can evaluate the results of your test and determine if you need treatment for heart disease or other conditions. Call the office in New Port Richey or Seffner, Florida today to schedule an EKG consultation or book an appointment online.
What is an EKG?
An electrocardiogram (EKG) is a noninvasive diagnostic procedure used to measure the electrical signals in your heart.
An EKG can determine if your heart is beating at a normal rate and strength. When the results of an EKG are abnormal, it can indicate heart damage or disease.
Why would I need an EKG?
The physicians at Greenbrook Medical may request an EKG as part of your diagnostic workup to diagnose unexplained symptoms of a rapid heartbeat, chest pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness, which can result from:
- Blocked arteries
- Heart failure
- Heart damage
- Heart attack
- Arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat)
You may also need a routine EKG as a preventive screening if you have a family history or other risk factors for heart disease. If you’re taking medications to treat an existing health condition, you may also need regular EKGs to evaluate the health and function of your heart.
What happens during an EKG?
The Greenbrook Medical physicians offer EKG technologies on-site to ensure fast and accurate test results. They perform the procedure on an outpatient basis, and the test takes just a few minutes. There’s nothing you need to do to prepare for an EKG, and you can return to your usual activities immediately afterwards.
During your EKG, you can expect to lay comfortably on an exam table. The staff places electrode sensors on the skin of your chest, arms, and legs. The sensors connect to the EKG machine with wires. The machine records information about your heart’s electrical activity and displays it on a computer monitor.
You shouldn’t feel any discomfort during an EKG. After your procedure is over, the physicians remove the sensors and print out your EKG results. If there are any abnormalities in your heart’s activity, you may need additional testing to confirm your diagnosis.
The physicians can discuss your options for treating a heart condition during your visit. Greenbrook Medical provides comprehensive care services for heart disease and other cardiovascular conditions. They also offer referrals to a heart specialist through the available care coordination services.
To learn more about the diagnostic benefits of an EKG, call the Greenbrook Medical office nearest to you today or request an appointment online.