EKG Specialist

WakeMed Heart & Vascular – Cary Cardiology

Multi-Specialty Cardiovascular Group located in Cary, Dunn, Benson, & Fuquay-Varina, NC

An EKG is a standard test for those who are at risk for or showing symptoms of heart problems. Cary Cardiology, P.A., in Cary, Fuquay-Varina, Dunn, and Benson, North Carolina, offers onsite EKG testing, so you don’t have to make a special trip to have the test. The team can help make sure your heart is healthy. If you’re looking for a practice that’s equipped to handle heart issues, call or book an appointment online.

EKG Q & A

What is an EKG?

An electrocardiogram (EKG) is a quick, painless heart test that records electrical signals from your heart. The test doesn’t emit any electrical charge — it only picks up on electrical impulses — so you won’t experience an electrical shock.

The test consists of wires, connected to a heart monitor, that attach to your skin with electrodes, and a medical technician usually performs it. Cary Cardiology, P.A. provides convenient in-house EKG testing.

How does an EKG work?

During the test, you can lie back comfortably on an exam table. A technician prepares the test by sticking adhesive patches with the electrodes at various locations on your chest and limbs. The test takes only a few minutes, and you won’t feel anything during it.

During the test, the EKG detects the timing and strength of your heart’s electrical impulses. The electrodes pick up on those impulses and translate them into waves on a graph, either on a screen or paper.

After the test, your doctor analyzes the results and discusses them with you. If the test turns out normal, you may not need further testing. If it picks up irregularities, they may request follow-up testing.

If you’re experiencing heart symptoms, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, palpitations, or rapid pulse, Cary Cardiology, P.A. may recommend an EKG. They may perform an EKG to check how your pacemaker or other heart treatments are working, if you have a history or risk of heart disease, or as a part of your lab work if recommended.