How often should I get an electrocardiogram (ECG)?

Anthony L. Komaroff, MD

Internal Medicine

If you are middle-aged or elderly and have risk factors for a heart attack -- such as high blood pressure, high low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, or diabetes -- you should probably have an electrocardiogram (ECG) yearly, even if you're feeling fine. Also, because there are wide ranges of what's considered a "normal" ECG, it's helpful to have a baseline ECG to compare against future tests, to spot any abnormal changes.

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

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How often should I get an electrocardiogram (ECG)?

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