Understanding The Readings Of ECG Cables And Leadwires
The value of ECG cables and leadwires in particular and the ECG machine in general partly lies in correct readings of the results. This is especially true for people with home ECG machines recommended by their doctors. Emphasis must be made, nonetheless, that doctors are the best professionals to interpret the results and take appropriate actions, such as medications, lifestyle changes, and surgery.
Normal Sinus Rhythm
When your home ECG machine displays a “No apparent irregularity” message, you may regard it as normal sinus rhythm. Keep in mind that, in adults, the pulse rate ranges from 60 to 100 times per minute within less than 10 percent variation.
Be sure to ask your doctor about the implications for a pulse rate under 60 beats per minute (bpm), which can be a sign of sinus bradycardia, and a pulse rate of more than 100 bpm since it may be sinus tachycardia. If your pulse rate shows over 10 percent variation, it can be sinus arrhythmia.
Even in normal people, a heart rate of more than 100 bpm can be considered normal, in a manner of speaking. This is true for people with physiology conditions like fatigue, rage, excessive consumption of coffee and strong tea, drinking too much alcohol, and smoking. The pathology may include anemia, blood hypoxia, and hyperthyroidism, among others, although it can also be caused by a reaction to medications like atropine and epinephrine.
Bradycardia
When the resting heart rate is below 60 bpm, it’s most likely to be bradycardia although the affected person will not feel its symptoms until the rate falls below 50 bpm. Since bradycardia results in insufficient intake of oxygen in the heart, persons affected with it have higher risks for a cardiac arrest while its common symptoms include shortness of breath and fainting.
But even young healthy individuals and trained athletes may also have a slow resting heart rate on an ECG monitor. Resting bradycardia, however, can be considered normal if and when there are no other symptoms, such as chest discomfort, dizziness, and palpitations. Others who can have a slow resting heart rate include vagus excitement individuals and old people.
In terms of pathology, a slow heart rate can also mean ischemic heart disease, intracranial hypertension, and sick sinus syndrome as well as the effect of medicines (e.g., digitalis) and low temperatures. Be sure to see a doctor in these cases.
When undergoing an ECG test, be sure to check that the EKG cables and leadwires are in good condition since these can affect the accuracy of the results. If necessary, these should be replaced by a qualified professional or under the supervision of one, if you want to know about proper DIY replacement.