Test / Diagnostic Procedure: Electrocardiogram (ECG)

An ECG is a simple test to check your hearts rhythm and electrical activity.

Bookings: bookings.hearthealth@onewelbeck.com

Tel: 020 3653 2005

What is an ECG?

An ECG is a simple test to check your hearts rhythm and electrical activity.

Sensors are attached to the skin and used to detect the electrical signals produced by each heartbeat.

Signals are recorded by a machine and looked at by a consultant cardiologist to see if they are unusual.

It is important to note that an electrocardiogram IS NOT the same as an echocardiogram which is an ultrasound scan used to look at the heart.


Why would I need an ECG?

An ECG would typically be used alongside other tests to help diagnose and monitor any conditions of the heart.

If there are any signs or symptoms of possible heart problems, it will also be used to detect these. These symptoms could include chest pain, palpitations, dizziness and shortness of breath.

An ECG can help detect:

  • Arrhythmias
  • Coronary heart disease
  • Heart attack
  • Cardiomyopathy

What can I expect when having an ECG?

You will lie on a couch with your upper body clothing removed. Sticky pads will be attached across your chest and on your arms and legs. The machine will read the electrical signals inside your heart and send them to the cardiologist.


Risk factors with an ECG

As explained above, an ECG is a quick and painless test with no electricity being put into your body.

As the sensor pads are sticky, there may be some discomfort when these pads are removed. Some people may notice a mild rash where the sticky pads have been, but this should subside after a while.


Test / diagnostic pricing

Please contact the centre to discuss pricing.


Overview

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Health Insurance

This service or treatment is generally covered by most health insurance policies. You are responsible for checking your insurance policy cover, and you may need a referral letter. Check which insurance companies are covered.

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Doctor Referral Only

You will generally need to get a referral letter from your NHS GP, Private GP, or other doctor to access this service or treatment. Find out more including how we can assist you

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Self-Pay Available

This treatment is available for self-paying users. If you would like to see more information on pricing visit our pricing and payments page.

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Fixed Price Package

For peace of mind, this service or treatment is available for an all-inclusive fixed price package.

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Same Day Availability

We usually have same-day appointments available for this service. Please call us to book.

Electrocardiogram specialists

The consultants at OneWelbeck Heart Health have been assembled based on their hard-earned international reputations and expertise. Together, they cover the major London teaching hospitals and leading cardiac services, making up the largest independent cardiology group in the UK.