Electrocardiogram (ECG / EKG)

An electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) is a diagnostic test that records the electrical activity of the heart. It provides important information about heart rhythm, heart rate, and the function of the heart muscle.

The examination is simple, painless, and non-invasive.

Long-term ECG (Holter ECG)

A 24-hour ECG continuously records your heart rhythm over an extended period while you go about your normal daily activities. It helps detect intermittent or occasional rhythm disturbances that may not appear during a standard ECG.

Small electrodes are placed on your chest and connected to a portable recording device worn under your clothing. You should continue your usual routine, including normal physical activity.

If you experience any symptoms such as palpitations or dizziness, you should note the time and describe the symptoms in a diary for later correlation with the ECG data.

Important: The device must be worn continuously, including during sleep. Showering or bathing is not possible during the monitoring period.

Stress ECG (Exercise ECG / Ergometry)

During a stress ECG, the heart is monitored under physical exertion—usually while cycling on a stationary bike (ergometer).

This test helps detect:

• Reduced blood flow in the heart (coronary artery disease)
• Exercise-related blood pressure abnormalities
• Heart rhythm disorders triggered by physical activity
• Overall cardiovascular fitness and exercise tolerance

The workload is gradually increased while heart activity and blood pressure are continuously monitored. The test is stopped if necessary, for example in cases of fatigue, significant blood pressure changes, rhythm disturbances, or symptoms such as chest pain or dizziness.

Purpose of the Examination

The ECG is widely used in medical diagnostics and plays a key role in:

• Preventive health screening
• Evaluation of cardiovascular symptoms
• Monitoring known heart conditions
• Assessing physical fitness and treatment progress

It is a safe, quick, and highly informative diagnostic method.