Can an EKG detect heart disease?
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Oct 11, 2023.
An electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG) is a test that records the electrical signals of your heart and it can help to detect heart disease. It can be used to check for a number of things including:
- An abnormal heart rate or rhythm (cardiac arrhythmia);
- If narrowed or blocked arteries in your heart (coronary artery disease) are causing a heart attack or chest pain;
- Structural problems with the chambers of your heart;
- Signs of a previous heart attack; or
- How well a pacemaker or other treatment is working.
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