Electrocardiograms

An electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG) is a simple, non-invasive test that measures the electrical signals that control your heartbeat. These signals regulate how your heart contracts and pumps blood, and any irregularities could indicate underlying cardiovascular conditions.

An ECG/EKG is a painless test that records these impulses and translates them into a graph, allowing our providers to analyze your heart’s rhythm, rate, and overall function.

At CAM Medical Group, we offer quick and accurate electrocardiogram testing in a comfortable setting. Whether you need routine heart monitoring or a diagnostic test for specific concerns, our experienced physicians can help.

An electrocardiogram is a simple test recommended when there are signs of potential heart problems or as part of a routine cardiac health evaluation. You may be asked to get an electrocardiogram for the following reasons. 

• To evaluate heart-related symptoms – If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, an ECG/EKG may be necessary to determine if they are linked to a heart condition:
  • Chest pain
  • Shortness of breath
  • Heart palpitations
  • Rapid pulse
  • Weakness and fatigue
  • Decline in exercise capacity
• To detect irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias) – An ECG/EKG can identify abnormal heart rhythms, such as atrial fibrillation, which may increase the risk of stroke or other complications.
• To monitor heart function before or after a procedure – If you are preparing for heart surgery or have undergone a cardiac procedure, an ECG/EKG helps assess your heart’s recovery and overall function.
• To check pacemaker performance – Patients with an implanted pacemaker may need regular ECG/EKG tests to ensure the device is functioning properly and maintaining a stable heart rhythm.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of heart medications – If you are taking a medication for heart disease or arrhythmias, an ECG/EKG can help determine whether your treatment is working as intended.
• To establish a baseline for future heart health monitoring – A baseline ECG/EKG provides a reference point for future tests, making it easier to track changes in heart function over time.

ECGs/EKGs are widely used to evaluate heart health and are often the first test performed when symptoms of a heart condition arise. 

An electrocardiogram is a quick, painless, and non-invasive test. The process typically takes just a few minutes and requires no special preparation. 

Here is what you can expect during your ECG/EKG test:

• You will be asked to lie comfortably while our technician places small, adhesive electrodes on your chest, arms, and legs. 
• The electrodes pick up the electrical impulses generated by your heart and send them to the ECG machine. The ECG machine records and interprets your heart’s electrical activity as a visual waveform.
• To ensure accurate results, you must remain still and breathe normally throughout the test.

Once the recording is complete, our technician will remove the electrodes and let you get dressed. After an ECG exam, you can immediately resume your usual activities.

The procedure is completely painless, though you might feel a slight cooling sensation from the electrodes. Their removal could cause mild discomfort if you have body hair. However, no electric current is passed into your body at any point.

Sometimes, a standard electrocardiogram may not detect irregular heartbeats, especially if they occur unpredictably. In such cases, Holter monitoring provides a more in-depth assessment by continuously tracking your heart’s electrical activity over an extended period.

A Holter monitor is a small, wearable device that records your heart’s activity for 24 to 48 hours or longer while you go about your daily routine. 

Unlike a standard ECG/EKG, which captures only a brief snapshot of your heart’s function, a Holter monitor provides valuable insights into how your heart behaves throughout the day and night.

During the Holter monitoring test:

• Electrodes will be placed on your chest and abdomen, connected to the Holter monitor with thin wires.
• The monitor is small and portable and can be worn over your shoulder (like a bag), around your waist, or clipped to a belt or pocket. 
• You will continue with your regular daily activities while the device records your heart’s activity unless otherwise instructed by our provider.
• You may be asked to keep a journal of your activities and any symptoms, such as dizziness, palpitations, or chest discomfort, noting the time they occur.
• After the monitoring period, you will return the device to our clinic, where we will carefully analyze the recorded data.

Holter monitoring can help detect arrhythmias that may not appear during a routine ECG/EKG. 

At CAM Medical Group, we provide advanced Holter monitoring services to thoroughly evaluate your heart’s rhythm. Our experienced team will guide you throughout the process, ensuring you feel comfortable and informed. 

An ECG/EKG test is a powerful tool for detecting heart issues early and making informed health decisions. At CAM Medical Group, we provide comprehensive electrocardiogram services to assess your heart’s function with precision and care.

We are committed to making your experience as easy as possible, so our team is proud to offer bilingual support in English and Spanish. For your convenience, we also offer flexible scheduling options, including Saturday hours and walk-in availability.

To schedule a consultation, walk into our clinic on W Wilson Ave or N Western Ave in Chicago. Alternatively, you can call us or request an appointment online.