An ECG records the electrical signal that makes your heart beat, using small sensors placed on your chest, arms, and legs. It takes about five minutes and causes no discomfort — no needles, no dye. The resulting trace tells your cardiologist whether your heart's rhythm is regular, whether any part of the heart muscle has been damaged in the past, and whether there are signs of strain that need further testing.
Types
Resting ECG
The standard test — a snapshot of your heart's rhythm while you lie still for a few minutes. Used for most routine and emergency checks.
Holter Monitor (24–48 hr)
A portable ECG worn for a full day or two to catch irregular heartbeats that come and go, which a five-minute test might miss entirely.
When it's usually needed
- Chest pain, palpitations, or breathlessness
- Unexplained dizziness or fainting
- Routine screening before surgery or for annual health checks
Good to know
Duration: 5–10 minutes (resting); 24–48 hours (Holter)
Preparation: No preparation needed; results are available immediately.
This page is for general information and doesn't replace a medical consultation. Your cardiologist will confirm what's right for your specific case.