Prepare for the recording
Wear a top that is easy to remove. Avoid body lotion or oil where the electrodes will sit. Bring your medication list and any previous ECGs.
Cardiac diagnostics in Shanghai
ECG testing in Shanghai.
An electrocardiogram (ECG) records the electrical signals that control your heartbeat. A resting ECG gives a short recording of heart rate and rhythm. Our cardiology team uses it alongside your symptoms, medical history and other findings.
01Electrical activity and rhythm
02A short resting recording
03Results in clinical context
Your visit
Why a cardiologist may recommend an ECG.
An ECG can be one part of assessing a symptom or monitoring an existing condition. Your clinician will explain why it is appropriate for you.
- Palpitations or a heartbeat that feels irregular
- Stable or recurring chest discomfort after clinical assessment
- Follow-up of an existing heart condition
- Monitoring the effect of certain medicines
Your assessment
What happens during a resting ECG.
This describes a resting ECG. Exercise testing and longer rhythm monitoring are different investigations with their own instructions.
Lie still while signals are recorded
Small adhesive electrodes are placed on your chest and limbs and connected to a recorder. The machine detects your heart’s signals; it does not deliver an electric shock.
After the test
The electrodes are removed when the recording is complete. The adhesive may briefly irritate sensitive skin. Ask how your result will be explained and whether follow-up is needed.
Specialist care
Understanding your ECG.
A recording helps answer specific clinical questions. It is not a complete assessment of every heart problem.
Rate and rhythm
The trace can identify abnormalities in heart rate or rhythm and provide other electrical clues for your clinician.
A moment in time
Intermittent symptoms may not occur during a short ECG. A normal recording does not rule out every rhythm problem.
The next investigation
Persistent symptoms may lead to Holter monitoring or another test. An unusual trace also needs interpretation alongside your clinical history.
Cardiology specialists
Meet the team behind your care.
Patient services can help identify the most appropriate cardiologist for your symptoms and records.
Cardiology and heart failure
Dr. Kathy Shi
Chief of Cardiology Department, SinoUnited Health
Cardiovascular medicine
Dr. Jielin Pu
Chief Physician · Second-level Professor · Doctoral SupervisorNot sure which specialist to choose?
Let us guide youCommon questions
About ECG.
Is an ECG painful?
The recording itself is usually painless. Removing the adhesive electrodes can feel like removing a plaster and may cause temporary skin irritation.
Is an ECG the same as a heart ultrasound?
No. An ECG records electrical activity. Echocardiography uses ultrasound to create images of heart structure and pumping function.
Why might I need a Holter monitor after a normal ECG?
A short recording can miss a rhythm change that comes and goes. Longer monitoring may help relate your symptoms to your heart rhythm.
When will I receive my ECG results?
Ask patient services how the report and cardiologist review will be arranged. Timing depends on the appointment and any other investigations required.
How do I book an ECG in Shanghai?
Contact patient services with any existing test request or a description of your concern. The team will coordinate the appropriate assessment, preparation and fees.
Appointments in Shanghai
Start with a short conversation.
Tell patient services what is happening. The team will help coordinate the right next step.