Can an EKG detect blockage in your heart?

As a medical professional with expertise in cardiology, I can explain the role of an EKG in detecting heart conditions. An EKG (Electrocardiogram) is a non-invasive test that records the electrical activity of the heart. It can help identify various heart problems, including some types of heart blockages. However, it's important to note that an EKG primarily detects changes in the heart's electrical activity, which can be indicative of a blockage, but it does not directly visualize or confirm the presence of a blockage. An EKG can show signs of a heart attack or a previous heart attack, as these events can cause characteristic changes in the electrical signals. It can also identify arrhythmias, which are irregular heartbeats that can sometimes be related to blockages in the coronary arteries. However, for a more definitive diagnosis of a blockage, other imaging tests such as an echocardiogram, a stress test, or coronary angiography might be necessary. In summary, while an EKG is a valuable tool for evaluating heart function and can suggest the presence of a blockage, it is not the sole diagnostic tool for detecting blockages in the heart.

EKG (Electrocardiogram) Doctors usually use an EKG (electrocardiogram) to help diagnose heart block. This simple test detects and records the heart's electrical activity. An EKG shows how fast the heart is beating and its rhythm (steady or irregular).