Question

Which is not detected in ECG?
A) Arrhythmia
B) Myocardial infarction
C) Heart block
D) Valvular defects

Answer 1

An electrocardiogram is the full form of ECG, it records the electrical signals of the heart. It is a common and painless test that is used to quickly detect heart problems and monitor the heart's health. During an ECG, up to twelve electrodes will be attached to the person's chest and limbs. These electrodes are sticky patches with wires which are connected to a monitor and record the electrical signals. A computer records this information and displays it as waves on a monitor or on a paper.

Complete answer:
An electrocardiogram is a safe procedure where there is no risk of electrical shock during the test because the electrodes that are used for this procedure do not produce electricity. The electrodes only record the electrical activity of your heart.

The most efficient way to diagnose an arrhythmia is with the help of an electrical recording of your heart rhythm called an electrocardiogram (ECG). This includes wearing a small portable ECG recording device for twenty-four hours or longer. This is called a Holter monitor or ambulatory ECG monitoring. If your symptoms are caused by exercise, an exercise ECG is required to record heart rhythms while using a treadmill or exercise bike.

Myocardial infarction can also be detected using an ECG. Severe ischemia results in ECG changes within minutes. While the ischemia lasts, ECG changes will occur and disappear again. Therefore, it is critical to recognize ischemia on the ECG at an early stage.

Heart block, also called the atrioventricular block, is when the electrical signal that controls your heartbeat is either partially or completely blocked. This makes the heart beat slow or skip beats and the heart cannot pump blood effectively.

Valvular defects cannot be detected using an ECG. Chest X-ray can be used to determine such defects.
Therefore, an ECG can detect arrhythmia, myocardial infarction and also heart block but not valvular defects.

Thus the correct answer is option ‘D’.

The diagram below depicts an ECG.

Note: Minor discomfort similar to removing a bandage might be experienced when the electrodes are removed. Some people can develop a slight rash where the patches were placed. An ECG is required if there is chest pain, dizziness, lightheadedness or confusion, rapid pulse, dyspnea, fatigue or inability to exercise.