An electrocardiogram, or ECG (also known as EKG), is a simple, non-invasive test that records the electrical activity of the heart. It helps detect irregular heart rhythms, heart attacks (past or ongoing), and other cardiac conditions that affect the heart’s electrical system.

During an ECG, small electrode patches are placed on the chest, arms, and legs to capture the heart’s electrical signals. The results can reveal arrhythmias, signs of coronary artery disease, enlarged heart chambers, electrolyte imbalances, and other abnormalities.