What can cause a EKG to be abnormal?

As a medical professional with expertise in cardiology, I can explain that an EKG, or electrocardiogram, is a crucial diagnostic tool that records the electrical activity of the heart. An EKG abnormality can be caused by a variety of factors, ranging from harmless variations to serious medical conditions. Here are some potential causes: 1. Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction): Damage to the heart muscle can cause an abnormal EKG reading. 2. Arrhythmias: These are irregular heartbeats that can be life-threatening and are often detected through EKG changes. 3. Heart Disease (Coronary Artery Disease): Narrowing of the arteries can lead to an abnormal EKG. 4. Hypertrophy: Enlargement of the heart muscle, particularly the left ventricle, can alter EKG readings. 5. Inflammation (Myocarditis): Inflammation of the heart can also result in an abnormal EKG. 6. Electrolyte Imbalances: Abnormal levels of sodium, potassium, calcium, or magnesium can affect the EKG. 7. Drug Effects: Certain medications can alter the electrical conduction in the heart and thus the EKG. 8. Structural Heart Defects: Congenital or acquired defects can cause EKG abnormalities. 9. Ventricular Hypertrophy: An increase in the size of the heart's ventricles can lead to an abnormal EKG. 10. Physical Stress or Anxiety: Sometimes, stress or anxiety can cause temporary EKG changes. It's important to note that not all EKG abnormalities are indicative of a medical emergency. Some variations are considered normal for certain individuals and do not affect health. However, any abnormal EKG should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to determine its significance and 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.