Electrocardiography

Electrocardiography is the process of producing an electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG), a recording of the heart's electrical activity through repeated cardiac cycles. It measures the electrical changes that occur during each cardiac cycle.

An electrogram is a graph of voltage versus time that represents the electrical activity of the heart. It is graphed using electrodes placed on the skin that detect the small electrical changes.

Examples of cardiac abnormalities that can be detected through changes in the ECG pattern include cardiac rhythm disturbances, inadequate coronary artery blood flow, and electrolyte disturbances.

<p>The abbreviation 'ECG' usually refers to a 12-lead ECG taken while lying down.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Yes, other devices can record the electrical activity of the heart, such as a Holter monitor.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Arrhythmias are irregularities in the heartbeat, including when it is too fast or too slow.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Tachycardia is a resting heart rate that is too fast, above 100 beats per minute in adults.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Symptoms may include palpitations, feeling a pause between heartbeats, lightheadedness, passing out, shortness of breath, or chest pain.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Bradycardia is a resting heart rate that is too slow, below 60 beats per minute.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The four categories of arrhythmias are extra beats, supraventricular tachycardias, ventricular arrhythmias, and bradyarrhythmias.</p> Signup and view all the answers