What Is an Electrocardiogram (ECG, EKG)?
Electrocardiography (ECG or EKG from the German Elektrokardiogramm) is a transthoracic (across the thorax or chest) interpretation of the electrical activity of the heart over a period of time, as detected by electrodes attached to the outer surface of the skin and recorded by a device external to the body.[1] The recording produced by this noninvasive procedure is termed as electrocardiogram(also ECG or EKG). An ECG test records the electrical activity of the heart.

ECG is used to measure the rate and regularity of heartbeats, as well as the size and position of the chambers, the presence of any damage to the heart, and the effects of drugs or devices used to regulate the heart, such as a pacemaker.

How you prepare:
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No special preparations are necessary. However, avoid drinking cold water or exercising immediately before an electrocardiogram.

Reasons to Have an ECG
The ECG is used to assess heart function. Patients who complain of chest pain or shortness of breath will often have an ECG as one of the first tests to help determine if there is an acute myocardial infarction or heart attack present. Even if there is no heart attack, the ECG can help decide whether the pain is due to angina or narrowing of blood vessels to the heart muscle

During the ECG
Four patches are placed on the limbs. One is placed on each shoulder or upper arm and one on each leg. These are called the limb leads. There