An electrocardiogram (also called an ECG or EKG ) is used to monitor your heart. Each beat of your heart is triggered by an electrical impulse generated from special cells in the upper right chamber of your heart.
An electrocardiogram is a painless, noninvasive way to diagnose many common types of heart problems. Your doctor may use an electrocardiogram to detect:
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Irregularities in your heart rhythm (arrhythmias)
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Heart defects
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Problems with your heart's valves
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Blocked or narrowed arteries in your heart (coronary artery disease)
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A heart attack, in emergency situations
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A previous heart attack
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How well mechanical devices that are implanted in the heart, such as pacemakers, are working to control a normal heartbeat