Your heart beats because of small electrical signals that spread through the muscle in a coordinated pattern. An electrocardiogram — ECG for short — is a quick, painless test that records those signals, giving a snapshot of how your heart is working from an electrical point of view.
What an ECG measures
Small sticky electrodes are placed on your chest, arms and legs, and a machine records the electrical activity as a series of traces. A standard test is called a 12-lead ECG because it views the heart from twelve different angles. From the shape and timing of the waves, a clinician can tell a great deal about your heart rhythm and structure.
What it can detect
An ECG is especially good at picking up electrical and rhythm problems, and can hint at other issues too:
- Abnormal heart rhythms such as atrial fibrillation, or a heart beating too fast or too slow.
- Signs of a current or previous heart attack.
- Evidence of a thickened or enlarged heart muscle.
- Certain inherited electrical conditions.
- Effects of some medications or electrolyte imbalances.
Do you need one?
An ECG is worth considering if you have symptoms that could relate to the heart, or a reason to check before increasing physical demands. Common situations include:
- Palpitations, a racing or irregular heartbeat.
- Chest discomfort, breathlessness or unexplained dizziness.
- Before starting a demanding exercise programme, particularly later in life.
- A family history of heart rhythm problems or sudden cardiac events.
- As part of a broader health check for peace of mind.
Book an ECG
Our 12-lead ECG is quick and painless, with full doctor interpretation of the trace — useful for palpitations, pre-exercise checks or simply for reassurance.
Book an ECGWhat to expect
The test itself takes only a few minutes. You lie down, the electrodes are attached, and you stay still and relaxed while the recording is taken. There is no electricity passed into you — the machine only listens. Afterwards a doctor reviews the trace and explains what it shows.
When to get checked — and when to call for help
If you have ongoing palpitations or have been advised to check your heart before exercise, a planned ECG is sensible. Importantly, an ECG is not an emergency service: if you have sudden severe chest pain, breathlessness or collapse, call 999 straight away rather than booking a test.
Book an ECG
Book online with OneMedicine — CQC-registered clinic in Birmingham, or a home visit / local clinic nationwide. Doctor-reviewed results, most within 24 hours.
Book now
Specialist interest: Cardiovascular Medicine · OneMedicine, CQC-registered clinic