A Beginner’s Guide to EKGs: What the Results Mean

Understanding EKGs and What They Reveal About Your Heart 

Electrocardiograms, commonly known as EKGs or ECGs, are one of the most frequently used tools in cardiology to assess the electrical activity of your heart. If your doctor has ordered one, you may be wondering what to expect and how to understand the results. This beginner’s guide breaks it all down in simple terms. 

What Is an EKG? 

An EKG (electrocardiogram) is a non-invasive test that measures the electrical impulses generated by your heart. These impulses cause your heart to contract and pump blood. The test helps doctors evaluate: 

• Heart rate and rhythm 
• Electrical conduction pathways 
• Past or ongoing heart attacks 
• Signs of abnormal heart size or structure 

During the test, electrodes (small sticky patches) are placed on your chest, arms, and legs. These are connected to the EKG machine, which records your heart’s electrical activity as wavy lines on a graph. 

When Is an EKG Recommended? 

Your cardiologist may recommend an EKG if you’re experiencing symptoms such as: 

• Chest pain or pressure 
• Irregular heartbeat or palpitations 
• Shortness of breath 
• Dizziness or fainting 
• Fatigue or weakness 
• High blood pressure or existing heart conditions 

It may also be used as a routine checkup for patients over 40, or before undergoing surgery. 

How to Read Basic EKG Results 

While interpreting EKGs is best left to a trained cardiologist, here’s what the basic components mean: 

Heart Rate 

A normal heart rate is between 60–100 beats per minute. Too fast is called tachycardia, too slow is bradycardia. 

Rhythm 

A healthy heart rhythm is called sinus rhythm. Irregular rhythms may indicate arrhythmias, such as atrial fibrillation. 

P Wave, QRS Complex, and T Wave 

These are the different waves seen on an EKG trace: 

• P wave: Atrial contraction 
• QRS complex: Ventricular contraction 
• T wave: Recovery phase 

Abnormalities in these waves can suggest past heart attacks, electrolyte imbalances, or other cardiac issues. 

What Abnormal EKG Results Might Mean 

Abnormal results don’t always mean something serious. Common findings include: 

• Arrhythmias – Disruption in the heart’s rhythm 
• Ischemia – Reduced blood flow to the heart 
• Myocardial infarction – Evidence of a past heart attack 
• Electrolyte imbalances 
• Heart enlargement or structural changes 

Your cardiologist may order further tests like echocardiograms, stress tests, or Holter monitors to confirm a diagnosis. 

What to Do If Your EKG Is Abnormal 

Don’t panic. EKGs are just one part of the diagnostic picture. If your results are abnormal: 

1. Follow up with your cardiologist. 
2. Review any symptoms you’ve experienced. 
3. Get additional testing, if recommended. 
4. Maintain a healthy lifestyle – exercise, manage stress, and follow your diet and medication plan. 
   
   

Final Thoughts 

An EKG is a powerful tool in early detection and prevention of heart disease. Understanding its purpose and what the results mean can empower you to take charge of your heart health. 

If you’ve recently had an EKG or are due for one, consult the experienced cardiologists at i-Cardiology to interpret your results and plan next steps.