Exercise Electrocardiogram: Risks
Risks
An exercise electrocardiogram is generally safe. Emergency equipment will be available in the testing area. Risks include:
- Irregular heartbeats during the test.
- Severe chest pain (angina).
- Fainting.
- Falling.
- Heart attack.
The electrodes are used to transfer an image of the electrical activity of your heart to tracing on paper. No electricity passes through your body from the machine, and there is no danger of getting an electrical shock.
| Last updated: | April 21, 2006 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Sydney Youngerman-Cole, RN, BSN, RNC |
| Reviewed By: | Caroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine, George Philippides, MD - Cardiology |
| Editors: | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer |
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