EKG Testing Specialist
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Kimberly Bolling, MD
Internist located in Bowie, MD
An electrocardiogram is a noninvasive and incredibly easy way to evaluate your heart. Through this test, Dr. Kimberly L. Bolling can diagnose heart disease, check for previous heart attacks, analyze the flow of blood to your heart, and more at her self-titled practice in Bowie, Maryland. To get a full picture of your heart health, schedule an appointment online or over the phone today.
EKG Testing Q & A
What are electrocardiograms and echocardiograms?
Electrocardiograms and echocardiograms both evaluate your heart, but they do it in different ways. An electrocardiogram measures your heart's electrical activity through electrodes on your skin. Echocardiograms use ultrasound sound waves to generate a visual representation of your heart.
Echocardiograms are a more complex test, and they are usually only needed if the electrocardiogram reveals issues that require a more in-depth look at your heart.
Do I need an electrocardiogram?
If you have symptoms such as chest pain, heart palpitations, or dizziness, Dr. Bolling may use an electrocardiogram to check for signs of heart disease. You may also need an electrocardiogram if you have a pacemaker and start having symptoms that could indicate heart problems.
Furthermore, if you're on new heart medications, you may need an electrocardiogram to check on the thickness of your heart wall chamber, which can thin or thicken due to genetics, coronary artery disease, or other causes. If you’re beginning a new medical weight loss program, you’ll have an electrocardiogram to ensure that your heart is healthy enough for the program.
What information can my doctor get from an electrocardiogram?
Your electrocardiogram will reveal two main types of information: the timing of electrical waves and the total amount of electrical activity in your heart.
If the electrical wave moves through your heart too slowly, too quickly, or irregularly, it might indicate a heart problem.
By measuring the amount of electrical activity that occurs in your heart, an electrocardiogram can reveal whether you have an enlarged or overworked heart.
What if my electrocardiogram is abnormal?
In some cases, an abnormal electrocardiogram can simply mean your heart had a normal rhythm variation during the test. However, an abnormal electrocardiogram can also indicate serious heart issues, and may even signal that you're going to have a heart attack.
There are many different abnormal electrocardiogram readings, and Dr. Bolling has the training to determine if you have an issue that requires prompt attention.
To get control of your heart health, schedule an appointment with Dr. Kimberly L. Bolling online or over the phone today.
