HealthWise KnowledgeBase
Electrocardiogram
Test Overview
An electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG) is a test
that checks for problems with the electrical activity of your heart. An EKG
translates the
Reference heart's electrical activity into line tracings on
paper. The spikes and dips in the line tracings are called waves. See a picture
of the Reference EKG components and intervals Opens New Window Reference 
Opens New Window.
The heart is a muscular pump made
up of Reference four chambers Opens New Window Reference Opens New Window. The two upper chambers are called
atria, and the two lower chambers are called ventricles. A natural electrical
system causes the heart muscle to contract and pump blood through the heart to
the lungs and the rest of the body. See a picture of the
Reference heart and its electrical system Opens New Window Reference Opens New Window.
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
