Electrocardiogram (EKG) in Columbus, GA

At Concierge Medicine of Columbus, our team of physicians takes heart conditions seriously. One of the diagnostics we offer to obtain an understanding of your heart's function is an EKG (electrocardiogram). An EKG uses noninvasive methods to record the electrical activity in the heart and can be done in one of our treatment rooms or any accredited hospital. This device is able to identify an abnormal heartbeat (arrhythmia), check up on a pacemaker, detect a previous heart attack, and see if any arteries are clogged or otherwise compromised. Patients in Columbus, GA with heart issues may require periodic check-ins to ensure that their health is in good shape.

Around the world, the electrocardiogram, or EKG, is the most commonly used diagnostic tool for identifying irregularities and problems related to the heart. An EKG gives Dr. Moore and Dr. Hudson a baseline reading of their patient's heart, rhythm, size, and the chambers' position. It also helps them diagnose a number of problems, including arrhythmias, inflammation, heart disease, a weak or irregular heartbeat, and more. EKGs are important because they are the window into the health of one of the most important organs in the body – the heart.

Directly following your EKG, you should be free to return to your everyday activities unless otherwise advised by your provider at Concierge Medicine of Columbus. There are typiclaly no dietary restrictions after EKGs as well. Your results, which include information regarding your heart's rhythm and rate, will be generally available within a few days following your test. Our Columbus, GA office will reach out to you directly if anything urgent shows up as a result of your EKG.

If you've battled with chronic heart conditions or suspect that you may be having a recurring cardiovascular problem, an EKG may be needed to monitor the electrical activity of the organ. Patients who need an EKG may experience any of the following symptoms:

• Chest pain
• Quickened pulse
• Heart palpitations
• Lightheadedness
• Confusion
• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath

Can I drink coffee or tea before an EKG test?

In general, it is best to avoid any foods or drinks that contain caffeine before an EKG test; however, studies have shown that caffeine has a minimal effect on EKG results.

Can I eat before an EKG test?

Yes, you can. Eating doesn't affect an EKG test.

What do I need to do to prepare for an EKG test?

There’s not much you really need to do to prepare; however, here are a couple of tips:

• Don’t use oily or greasy lotions the day of the test since they can interfere with the electrode-skin contact
• Don’t wear hosiery since electrodes will need to be placed on the legs
• Wear a shirt that is easy to remove or open to place the electrodes
• Refrain from smoking before the test

Does an EKG test hurt?

No, it doesn’t hurt at all.

How long does an EKG test usually take?

An EKG test is very quick. It takes about 10 minutes to place the electrodes but often less than a minute to run the actual test.

Having a strong heart is essential when it comes to living a long, happy life. At Concierge Medicine of Columbus, our team pulls out all the stops to ensure your lasting health and quality of life. When you're treated for a heart condition at our Columbus, GA office, we treat you with the utmost care and attention.