ECG Swansea

Electrocardiogram (ECG)

What is an ECG?

An ECG stands for ‘electrocardiogram. (ECG) tests are a safe and painless procedure to check your heart's rhythm and electrical activity. It helps diagnose and monitor conditions that affect your heart.

What can an ECG detect?

ECG testing checks the heart’s electrical activity. It can be used to diagnose a number of conditions, including: 

• coronary heart disease 
• angina 
• pericarditis (inflammation of the tissue around the heart) 
• cardiomyopathy (swollen or thickened heart walls) 

It may also be used to monitor your hearts health including lifestyle factors, including smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure or cholesterol, or a family history of heart disease. 

How do I prepare for an ECG test?

You should avoid using any lotions, creams, oils or powders on your skin before your test. . Some people may need to have chest hair shaved away in places to make sure a good connection with the leads.

What happens during a consultation?

Ten leads are attached to the body, mainly around the heart. The results are then sent to a cardiologist or cardiac nurse to interpret and you will be sent a report on the findings.

How long does a 12-lead ECG test take?

We advise to allow 30 minutes for your appointment

Who should have an ECG?

Anyone who has experienced one or a combination of the following: shortness of breath, chest pains, chest pain on exertion, palpitations or fluttering sensations in the chest, rapid pulse, weakness, fatigue, confusion, light-headedness or has a family history of heart disease or a diagnosis of Long COVID.

How much does an ECG cost?

An ECG costs £90 and will include a full report of your results.