An electrocardiogram (EKG) is a quick test that shows how your heart’s electrical system is working. It can help your doctor check your heartbeat and look for signs of heart problems.
What to expect during an EKG: The test usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes. You will lie down on an exam table. A nurse places small sticky pads called electrodes on your chest, arms, and legs. These pads “listen” to your heart—they cannot shock you. The test does not hurt. Sometimes a gel is used to help the pads read the signals.
What the results mean: The EKG machine turns your heart’s signals into lines on a paper or screen. Your doctor reviews these lines to see if your heart rhythm looks normal. An EKG can help guide your cardiac care, especially if you have symptoms like chest pain, dizziness, or fainting.
Do I need more tests? Sometimes an EKG looks abnormal even when the heart is healthy. Other times, an EKG can look normal even when there is heart disease. If your doctor needs more answers, you may need other tests. Our team will explain the next step and help you feel prepared for cardiac care in Tulsa.
- Get a starting EKG to compare with future tests
- Check chest pain quickly for signs of a heart problem
- Check for a fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat
- Support your overall heart care plan with clear results your doctor can review
When to call your doctor: Call right away if you have chest pain, trouble breathing, fainting, or a new fast or irregular heartbeat. For your visit, bring a list of your medicines and any symptoms you have noticed. This helps your care team choose the right next steps for testing and treatment.
Learn More
If you have questions about an electrocardiogram (EKG), contact your primary care provider. If you do not have a primary care provider, contact the Well Connected Hotline at 918-488-6688.