Interpreting an ECG(EKG)

Interpreting an ECG (EKG) ECGs can assist doctors in diagnosing and determining any current or past heart abnormalities and are often a regular screening for those with heart disease. Through electrodes attached at various strategic body points, the ECG machine records the electrical impulses of the heart. The results of the impulses are displayed on a computer monitor and then printed onto graph paper. The attending physician or ECG technician interprets your heart health by reading the graphed ECG image.  Most normal hearts have a pattern with a slightly varying rhythm. This is called sinus arrhythmia and is considered normal and healthy. The absence of sinus arrhythmia may indicate other problems with the heart. In ECG interpretation, the lack of sinus arrhythmia has been seen to predict the occurrence of sudden death from heart attack or heart failure. The results of an ECG may become the basis for additional treatment. Your doctor will decide if further evaluation is needed. ECG technicians are highly trained and skilled medical professionals; many physicians consider these technicians to be the first authority in interpreting the ECG results.