Local MD Urgent Care offers onsite EKG testing and lab services to get a clear picture of your health. If your physician recommends an EKG, know that your heart is in good hands with the compassionate, experienced providers at Local MD!
Discover why you may need an EKG, what information it provides, and more below. Our medical professionals at Local MD Urgent Care are always available to walk-in patients and those with scheduled appointments!
What is an EKG?
EKG stands for electrocardiogram (It’s also called an ECG.) An EKG measures your heart’s electrical activity. During the medical test, a technician will attach 10-12 electrodes to your chest, arms and legs. These electrodes will measure your heart rate and activity. They will stick to you with adhesive pads.
The test only takes about 10 minutes - from the time your tech begins to attach the electrodes to when the recording of your heart’s activity is complete. You will be asked to lie face-up on an exam table during the test.
You can do some or all of the following steps to prepare for the test, but you shouldn’t need to do much more. Avoid oily or greasy lotions. If you’re a man, you may have to shave your chest to make sure the electrodes can attach to your skin. You should also wear a shirt that’s easy to remove, such as a button-down shirt. An EKG is a safe medical procedure with little risk. You won’t receive an electrical shock, but you may have a slight rash from the electrodes.
Why Would I Need An EKG?
Your provider may recommend an EKG if you have complained about chest pain or heart palpitations. It may also be part of your annual wellness exam. You may need an EKG if your provider has noticed a problem during a regular exam. It will check for:
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Arrhythmia (Irregular Heartbeat)
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Heart Failure
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Heart Attack
What Does An EKG Show?
Once the EKG has been performed, it will help your doctor assess the health of your heart. Your heart rate is controlled by an electrical current, and an EKG measures how long it takes for that electrical activity to pass through your heart. It can help your doctor diagnose any abnormalities or other heart problems. During the test, your technician will record heart activity such as, but not limited to, the following:
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Heart Rate
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Heart Rhythm
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Blood Flow
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Electrolyte Abnormalities
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Heart Muscle Size
EKG Testing At An Urgent Care Vs. Emergency Room
While many people may assume that going to an emergency room for testing like an EKG is easier or faster, it is usually both more difficult, slower, and even more expensive. If you are looking for EKG testing near you, take a look at your local urgent care like Local MD.
Wait times at urgent cares are typically 5x less than emergency rooms, offering a more efficient way to cross this test off of your to do list. Local MD Urgent Care accepts most major insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare, and we can also work with patients who may not have insurance. Visit our team of reliable medical professionals to get your EKG test done.