ECG (Electrocardiogram) includes the English language word for the German term EKG (elektrokardiogramm). Both terms refer to the exact same procedure that’s utilized to measure the heart’s electrical activity and diagnose problems with the heart. There isn’t any difference between an EKG and ECG, except for its spelling. Both EKG and ECG are correct words, but, in America the procedure usually is called an EKG to differentiate it from the likewise sounding abbreviation for the EEG (electroencephalogram) that measures brain electrical waves rather than heart electrical waves. Additional countries besides the U.S. tend to more typically utilize the abbreviation ECG, though this isn’t always the case.
The root term “elektro” or “electro” means electricity. “Kardio” or “cardio” is utilized to refer to the heart. “Gramm” or “gram” means writing. This procedure is referred to as an EKG and ECG because it utilizes a device to measure electric impulses generated by the heart, then write, or record, those results to be assessed by the doctor.
What the EKG machine measure?
The EKG and ECG machine such as the GE MAC 5500 that Jaken Medical Inc. offers, referred to as an electrocardiograph, is connected to the body within certain areas through wired electrodes. Electrical impulses inside the heart signal your heart muscle to contract, causing a heartbeat. Those electrical impulses may be detected via the skin by the ECG’s electrodes. It’ll record the electric signals, within the form of wavy lines, either digitally on a computer screen or on paper with moving ink needles. Those machines will be sensitive enough to detect small abnormalities that then can be utilized to diagnose most kinds of heart issues.
The procedure itself will be noninvasive, painless, and over quickly, in a time span of a few minutes, which includes the time it’ll take to take down and set up the electrodes and machine. Most individuals are shocked by the thought of an electrical instrument being connected to the body, and oftentimes are concerned with the risk of electric shock. Also, individuals who have pacemakers oftentimes are concerned that the procedure is going to interfere with their pacemaker. However, during an EKG or ECG, no electricity actually is passed through the body whatsoever; the device simply is utilized to detect the body’s very own electrical energy. EKGs or ECGs generally are considered to be without health complications and risks, even though some may develop skin irritation or an allergic reaction to the adhesives utilized on the electrodes.