The electrocardiogram machine is used to perform cardiac tests. Using an electrocardiogram machine, doctors can screen for cardiac abnormalities.

 

An electrocardiogram machine can help doctors determine the heart rate and heart rhythm of an individual. Doctors can use an electrocardiogram machine to find out if the patient has had any prior history of heart attack or is at high risk for a heart attack.

 

Electrocardiogram machines are available at all hospitals and are easy to operate. These days a lot of hospitals also have a portable electrocardiogram machine. The portable electrocardiogram machines are light and can easily be transported.

An electrocardiogram test usually takes only around five minutes. The patient lies on an examination table and 10 electrodes from the electrocardiogram machine are attached to the patient’s arms, legs, and chest. The electrodes detect the electrical impulses generated by the heart, and transmit them to the electrocardiogram machine that proceeds to produce a graph of these electrical impulses. The electrocardiogram machine is used to detect the patient’s heart rate, hearth rhythm. It can detect prior abnormalities as well as thickening of the heart vessels that could lead to future heart attacks. The electrocardiogram is a painless process.

There are different types of electrocardiogram machines. The exercise electrocardiogram machine is used to monitor a person’s heart rate during a period of activity. This test helps the doctor evaluate whether exercise can create an arrhythmia for an individual.

A Holter electrocardiogram machine usually monitors a person’s heart rate over 24 to 72 hour period. This test is usually done when a doctor suspects that a patient has arrhythmia. The holter electrocardiogram machine can help the doctor confirm this suspicion.

The portable electrocardiogram machine is a small device that is usually strapped onto the patient. This machine is usually advised by doctors for patients whose heart rates need to be monitored very closely over a long period of time.

Electrocardiogram machines are also available with an external loop for patients whose heart rate needs to be monitored closely for about 4 to 5 five months. The inseratble loop electrocardiogram machine is usually prescribed for individuals whose heart rate needs to be monitored for around 14 months.

Individuals experiencing chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness or heart palpitations need to visit their doctor. At most times the heart rate and heart rhythm of these individuals will be monitored with an electrocardiogram machine.