Does a general practice perform electrocardiogram?

An ECG records the heart’s electrical activity through adhesive sensors placed on the chest and limbs. You usually lie still while the tracing is captured; the test does not send electricity into your body. A clinician reviews the tracing together with your symptoms, examination, and medical history. An ECG can provide useful clues about rhythm and heart strain, but a normal tracing does not explain every cause of chest discomfort, breathlessness, or palpitations.

When booking, explain the symptoms or reason for the test and ask whether the practice records ECGs on site. Wear clothing that allows access to the chest and avoid applying body lotion beforehand if you have been given preparation instructions. Tell the clinician about implanted devices, skin sensitivity, or difficulty lying flat. Ask who will interpret the tracing, when you will receive the result, and what follow-up is planned. See [Electrocardiogram] for an overview.

Call emergency services for chest pressure or pain that is severe or persistent, severe breathlessness, collapse, new weakness on one side, or difficulty speaking. Do not wait for a routine ECG appointment if palpitations occur with fainting, chest pain, or severe dizziness. Tell the practice promptly about recurring palpitations or shortness of breath even if symptoms have stopped, because an office tracing may not capture an intermittent rhythm.

What is the ECG intended to investigate? Will it be reviewed on site or elsewhere? When should I expect the result? Could I need a longer heart monitor? Which symptoms mean I should seek emergency care? Should I continue my usual medicines before the test?