ECG (Electrocardiogram)

An ECG is a recording of the heart's electrical activity. It can be very useful to detect the heart rate, changes in heart rhythm, heart enlargement, the presence of recent or old heart damage from angina or infarction, etc.

An ECG should be performed as a matter of course in all male patients over 40 and all female patients over 50.

Underlying Diseases/Conditions

An ECG should be performed in those patients with heart disease, lung disease, diabetes or a neurological disease.

Current Drugs Use

Those patients on radiation therapy or who are taking steroids or anticoagulants should have an ECG performed.