Understanding EKGs and Your Heart Health

February 12, 2025

At Jefferson County Health Center, we prioritize heart health and early detection of cardiac conditions. One essential tool in heart monitoring is the electrocardiogram (EKG)—a simple yet powerful test that provides valuable insights into your heart’s function.

What Is an EKG?

An electrocardiogram (EKG) records the electrical activity of your heart. Your heart beats because of electrical impulses that travel through its chambers, triggering contractions that pump blood throughout your body. An EKG captures these impulses and displays them as wave patterns, allowing healthcare providers to assess how well your heart is functioning.

How Does an EKG Work?

The test is quick, painless, and non-invasive. Small electrode patches are placed on your chest, arms, and legs. These electrodes detect your heart’s electrical signals and send them to a monitor that records the results. The entire process takes about ten minutes and requires no special preparation.

"An EKG is one of the easiest ways to check for heart abnormalities. It gives us a real-time look at your heart’s electrical activity, helping us detect potential issues early," says Kibben Whitham, EKG Technician in the Cardiopulmonary Services department at JCHC.

When Is an EKG Needed?

Your doctor may recommend an EKG if you experience symptoms such as:

  • Chest pain
  • Shortness of breath
  • Irregular heartbeats
  • Dizziness or fainting

An EKG can help diagnose arrhythmias (irregular heart rhythms), past heart attacks, and other cardiac issues that may require further evaluation or treatment.

More Than Just Diagnosing Problems

Beyond detecting heart conditions, EKGs serve a wide range of purposes, including:

  • Routine monitoring for high-risk patients – Those with high blood pressure, diabetes, or a family history of heart disease may undergo periodic EKGs.
  • Pre-surgical evaluations – Many procedures require an EKG beforehand to ensure your heart is functioning properly.
  • Athletic screenings – Some athletes undergo EKGs as part of heart screenings to detect conditions that could pose risks during intense physical activity.

Keeping Your Heart Healthy

While an EKG is a valuable diagnostic tool, preventing heart disease is key to long-term health. Here are some ways to support heart health:

  • Eat a balanced diet – Choose fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
  • Stay active – Regular physical activity, such as 30 minutes of walking per day, strengthens your heart.
  • Manage stress – Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation.
  • Get regular check-ups – Routine healthcare visits help detect concerns early.

If you have concerns about your heart health or are experiencing symptoms, don’t wait—schedule an appointment with a Provider at Jefferson County Health Center today. If you are experiencing chest pain, shortness of breath, or other signs of a heart emergency, call 911 immediately. Early detection and prevention are key to a healthy heart and a healthier life.

 

 

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