Signs That You May Need an Electrocardiogram (EKG) Test

An EKG is a noninvasive procedure that measures the electrical signals in your heart. It can detect and diagnose conditions such as arrhythmias, ischemia, heart attacks, congestive heart failure, and cardiomyopathy.

At AAA Urgent Care, we advise patients to consider having an EKG test if they exhibit symptoms of heart problems, like chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, palpitations, or extreme fatigue. These symptoms may indicate a problem with the heart’s electrical system or structure, which an EKG can help identify.

We use EKGs to monitor the effectiveness of heart medications and the general heart health of patients with diseases or conditions affecting the heart such as thyroid disorders, kidney disease, or lung disease.

While an EKG is an invaluable tool in diagnosing and monitoring heart conditions, we understand that not every patient needs this test. Our team of dedicated healthcare providers will help you determine if an EKG test is necessary for you.

At AAA Urgent Care, we provide a range of medical services, including non-invasive procedures like the Electrocardiogram (EKG) test. This test records your heart’s electrical activity to assess its health.
 
Before the Test:

Inform the AAA Urgent Care team: Notify our healthcare professionals about any medications or supplements you’re currently taking. Some drugs can interfere with the EKG test results.

Fasting: If required for your specific EKG test, our medical team will inform you about fasting.

Skin preparation: Refrain from using any oily or greasy skin lotions or creams on the day of your test. These substances can prevent the EKG electrodes from making good contact with your skin.

Dress comfortably: Wear a shirt that can be easily removed or opened at the chest. Dress warmly and comfortably for your ease during the process.

Bring necessary documents: Remember to bring your insurance card and a form of personal identification with you to your appointment.
 
During the Test:

Preparation: Arrive early to your appointment to reduce any stress that might affect your heart rate.

Electrodes placement: Small electrodes will be placed on your chest, arms, and legs. These electrodes record the electrical impulses of your heart.

Conductive Gel: Our medical team may apply a conductive gel to the areas where the electrodes are placed to improve signal quality.

Duration: The EKG test typically takes 5-10 minutes.
 
After the Test:

Removing electrodes and cleansing skin: After the recording is complete, the electrodes will be removed, and the gel on your skin can be wiped off with a damp cloth.

Resume activities: You can resume your normal activities immediately after the test.

At AAA Urgent Care, we strive to make your EKG test as comfortable and straightforward as possible. Follow these guidelines and consult with our medical team to ensure you’re fully prepared for your EKG test.

Chest Pain: If you’re experiencing persistent chest pain that feels like pressure, aching, or is sudden and severe, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention. Likewise, if the pain spreads to the arms, jaw, back, or upper abdomen or is triggered by exertion or stress, an EKG could be warranted.

Palpitations and Rapid Pulse: Irregular heartbeats that are too fast, too slow, or irregular, or a sensation of skipped beats or a fluttering in the chest could be symptoms of arrhythmias or other heart conditions. Our team can perform an EKG to get to the bottom of these symptoms.

Shortness of Breath: If you’re experiencing unexplained shortness of breath, especially when accompanied by chest pain or palpitations. Seek medical attention at AAA Urgent Care immediately.

Lightheadedness or Dizziness: Frequent episodes of feeling faint or dizzy, which are sudden and unexplained, could be indicative of heart problems.

Fatigue: Unexplained fatigue, weakness, or ongoing fatigue that is out of proportion to physical activity could suggest a heart condition. If fatigue persists despite rest, or if you’re unable to perform activities you used to do without difficulty, an EKG might be necessary.

Other Symptoms: Symptoms like chest tightness or pressure, nausea or vomiting, sweating without exertion, severe anxiety or a sense of impending doom, and a history of heart disease could warrant an EKG.

Our physicians commonly recommend an EKG to check for problems with your heart’s electrical activity. such as atrial fibrillation, can indicate an underlying condition that needs treatment. An EKG can also assess the effectiveness of medications used to control heart rhythm and evaluate the heart’s response to exercise or stress.

We offer EKG testing as part of a routine health examination or before major surgery, especially for those with a family history of heart disease, those over a certain age, or those with known cardiac risk factors or symptoms.

Our EKG services can also reveal other issues, like a high potassium level or the effects of certain medications on the heart. We may use this test to investigate unexplained symptoms that may be related to the heart and screen for heart disease in high-risk individuals.

At AAA Urgent Care, we’re committed to providing comprehensive care for your heart health. We use the EKG to identify any abnormalities and guide appropriate treatment. The information obtained from this test can be life-saving, making it a crucial tool in our practice. Visit us today for your heart health needs. For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 8229 NW 88th Ave, Tamarac, FL 33321. We serve patients from Tamarac FL, Coral Springs FL, Plantation FL, Sunrise FL, Coconut Creek FL, Pine Island Ridge FL, Pompano Beach FL and surrounding areas.