What does it mean to have an abnormal EKG?

As a medical professional with expertise in cardiology, I can explain the significance of an abnormal EKG. An EKG, or electrocardiogram, is a non-invasive test that records the electrical activity of the heart. It's a crucial diagnostic tool that helps healthcare providers understand how well the heart is functioning. When an EKG shows an abnormality, it can mean a variety of things. In some cases, an abnormal EKG may simply reflect a normal variation in the heart's rhythm that is not harmful and does not require any treatment. This is known as a normal variant and is not a cause for concern. However, an abnormal EKG can also indicate a serious health issue that requires immediate attention. For instance, it can signal a myocardial infarction, commonly known as a heart attack, which occurs when blood flow to the heart muscle is blocked. Additionally, an abnormal EKG can reveal a dangerous arrhythmia, which is an irregular heartbeat that can lead to a variety of complications, including stroke or heart failure. It's important to note that the interpretation of an EKG should be left to a qualified healthcare professional who can consider the patient's medical history, symptoms, and other diagnostic information to determine the appropriate course of action.

An electrocardiogram (EKG) measures your heart's electrical activity. ... Sometimes an EKG abnormality is a normal variation of a heart's rhythm, which does not affect your health. Other times, an abnormal EKG can signal a medical emergency, such as a myocardial infarction (heart attack) or a dangerous arrhythmia.