Electrocardiography — This is a graphic recording of the electrical activity of the heart. It determines the functional state of the heart and the vascular system. ECG evaluates the performance of the heart muscle, heart rhythm and its conduction, coronary circulation, and also reveals an increase in the chambers of the heart, atria and ventricles.
Accessibility, simplicity, informative — the merits of this method. ECG indicators are displayed on a paper tape in a graphic image. Let's figure out what the ECG norm is and is it worth it to decipher the indicators yourself.
- ECG: who should see a doctor
- About what ECG readings say
- ECG: How is an inpatient study performed?
- What do ECG waveforms mean: Graph interpretation
- ECG indicators: norm and deviations in case of heart disease
ECG: who should contact a doctor
You need to see a cardiologist if you feel:
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shortness of breath;
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recurrent weakness;
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palpitations at rest;
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dizziness;
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chest pains.
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In addition, doctors recommend regular check-ups:
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for diabetes;
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thyroid pathology;
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for diseases of the digestive tract;
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people over 45 years;
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patients after acute infectious diseases;
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those who abuse smoking and alcohol.
About what the ECG readings say
cardiogram diagnoses:
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arterial hypertension;
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ischemia;
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myocardial infarction;
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cardiosclerosis;
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endocrine abnormalities;
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heart failure;
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atrial fibrillation;
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tachycardia and bradycardia.
ECG: how is an inpatient study performed
Special preparation for the examination is not required. Doctors do not advise drinking coffee, alcohol and smoking before an ECG. This may affect the results of the ECG and lead to its misinterpretation.
The examination lasts approximately 10 minutes. The patient is determined on the couch. 12 electrodes are attached to arms, legs and chest. The electrocardiograph captures the readings and outputs them to the computer. The cardiogram is printed on tape in the form of 12 graphs. These are system lines that speak about the work of the heart.
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C of limbs 6 graphs are displayed: reinforced —aVR, aVF, aVL and standard — I, II, III. 6 curves taken from thoracic electrodes — V1, V2, V3, V4, V5, V6.
What do ECG waveforms mean: Graph interpretation
The cardiogram is deciphered by a specialist. But if the patient is impatient to know the results, he can see the big picture and refer to the ECG norm. This requires certain knowledge.
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The cardiological tape shows lines and teeth. They refer to a specific section of the heart: 2 ventricles and 2 atria. It is necessary to take into account the length of the teeth and the length of straight lines, pay attention to the shape of the teeth and the direction of the tops.
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Each graph is preceded by a designation. 12 leads — 12 curves.
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In the standard lead, you need to set the highest peak R and after it, count the cells between the three teeth R, going in series. Then divide the number of cells by 2. We get the average result, which indicates the heart rate (heart rate per minute).
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The gaps between the R-waves are measured to test the correctness of the heart rhythm. Norma — unless they differ from each other in size.
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Alternately determine the height of all the teeth and the length of the intervals on the chart.
Compliance with normal values
When displaying the heart rate, the recording speed —— 25 or 50 mm/s
Formulas for calculating heart rate (HR) at different belt speeds:
50 mm/sec: 600 : per mean number of large cells between R-waves = HR
25mm/sec: 300 : per average number of large cells between R-waves = HR
ECG indicators: norm and deviations in case of heart disease
This is just a simplified transcript result. The table contains normal indications and with deviations for the most common heart diseases. But qualified to comment on the ECG can and only a specialist. It analyzes the results in strict sequence according expanded tables and with adjusted age characteristics. Only a doctor can judge if the ECG is normal.
Take care of your health
ECG — available diagnostics of the heart. Moreover, any deviations in the body are reflected in its work. Everyone wants to be healthy, and therefore, you should not postpone a heart check until the moment when it is urgently needed. Preventive examination will help to avoid many health problems.
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