Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) is one of the simplest and fastest procedures used to evaluate the heart. An EKG records the electrical activity of the heart, shows abnormal rhythms (arrhythmias or dysrhythmias), and detects heart muscle damage.The heart operates by receiving electrical impulses which regulate its rhythm. If your doctor suspects an irregularity with your heart’s rhythm or beat, he might order an electrocardiogram (EKG). An electrocardiogram is a test that measures that electrical activity. The results are displayed as a wave on either a strip of paper or a video screen. By examining the wave pattern, your doctor can see the timing and type of the electrical impulses and use it to see the rhythm and heart rate. Underlying problems with the heart can also be noticed with an electrocardiogram. The results from your first EKG will be used by your doctor to compare future electrocardiogram readings to see if any changes took place which might indicate a problem.