Dr. Khot describes the Electrocardiogram (EKG) Test

ECG is a device used to record on graph paper the electrical activity of the heart. The picture is drawn by a computer from information supplied by the electrodes.

Your doctor uses the EKG to:

  • assess your heart rhythm
  • diagnose poor blood flow to the heart muscle (ischemia)
  • diagnose a heart attack
  • diagnose abnormalities of your heart, such as heart chamber enlargement and abnormal
    electrical conduction

Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 02/14/2019.

Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy