ECG Test Parameters
An ECG test includes several parameters represented by waves and intervals on the graph. Individually they may look confusing, but when seen together they give useful information about your heart health and body condition
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ECG Wave and Interval Related Parameters - P Wave: This shows the electrical activity associated with atrial contraction. Disruptions can indicate atrial enlargement or issues.
- PR Interval: This is the time taken for the electrical signal to pass from the atria to the ventricles. A prolonged time may suggest a heart block.
- QRS Complex: Represents the electrical activity when the ventricles (lower chambers) contract. Wider or abnormal QRS can point towards ventricular hypertrophy or bundle branch block.
- ST Segment: The flat line between the S wave and the T wave, indicating the period between ventricular depolarization and repolarization. Elevation or depression can be a sign of a heart attack (myocardial infarction) or ischemia.
- T Wave: Shows the electrical activity when the ventricles relax and repolarize. Abnormalities can indicate electrolyte imbalances or ischemia.
- QT Interval: Measures the total time for ventricular depolarization and repolarization. A prolonged QT interval can increase the risk of certain life-threatening arrhythmias.
- Heart Rate: Calculated from the number of QRS complexes, indicating how fast the heart is beating.
- Heart Rhythm: Indicates the regularity of heartbeats. Irregular rhythms can point towards arrhythmias.
Clear reporting of these parameters is important, which is why Dr. B. Lal Clinical Lab in JAIPUR follows strict quality and reporting standards for routine cardiac tests.