Electrocardiogram (ECG)

A quick, painless test that records the electrical activity of your heart.

What is it?

An electrocardiogram, usually called an ECG, records the electrical signals that make your heart beat. It provides information about your heart rate and rhythm and can show patterns that may suggest strain, reduced blood supply or previous heart damage. A resting ECG is a snapshot taken over a few seconds and does not involve electric shocks or radiation.

Is it for me?

Palpitations, a racing heart or an irregular heartbeat
Chest discomfort or unexplained shortness of breath
Dizziness, fainting or near-fainting
Unexplained tiredness or reduced exercise tolerance
High blood pressure, diabetes or another condition that can affect the heart
The need for monitoring before or during treatment with certain medicines

Important: An ECG appointment is not an emergency service. If you have severe or persistent chest pain, sudden breathlessness, collapse or symptoms suggesting a heart attack, call 112 immediately.

Preparing for your test

Wear a top that is easy to remove and allows access to your chest
Do not apply body lotion, oils or talcum powder to your chest on the day of the test
Continue your usual medicines unless your clinician has advised otherwise
Bring your medication list and any referral or previous cardiac results that may be relevant

What to expect

You will be asked to remove clothing from the upper body in privacy
Small adhesive electrodes will be placed on your chest, arms and legs and connected to the ECG machine
You will lie still and breathe normally while the recording is taken
The electrodes are then removed; occasionally small areas of chest hair need to be clipped to obtain a reliable trace

Practical information

Duration: The recording itself usually takes only a few minutes; allow approximately 15 minutes for the appointment.

Discomfort: The test is painless. Removing the adhesive patches may cause brief mild discomfort or minor skin irritation.

Results: The trace must be interpreted in the context of your symptoms and medical history. A normal resting ECG does not exclude every heart problem.

Related services

Ready to book this test? We keep the time between booking and testing to a minimum, so you are never stuck on a long waiting list. Once your test is complete, results are provided as soon as they are ready — no drawn-out wait, and none of the anxiety that comes with it.

Enquire Now
You can also enquire through reception by calling 2145 3973.