A "good" ECG score isn't a single number, but rather a set of measurements within specific ranges, indicating normal heart function. These ranges vary slightly between men and women.
Understanding ECG Measurements
An electrocardiogram (ECG) measures the electrical activity of your heart. The results include different waveforms and intervals, each representing a specific phase of the cardiac cycle. Here's a breakdown of what constitutes a "good" ECG, based on ranges from Yashoda Hospitals:
Normal ECG Ranges
The following table summarizes the normal ranges for key ECG measurements for men and women:
| MEASUREMENT | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| HEART RATE | 49 to 100 BPM | 55 to 108 BPM |
| P WAVELENGTH | 81 to 130 ms | 84 to 130 ms |
| PR INTERVAL | 119 to 210 ms | 120 to 202 ms |
| QRS DURATION | 74 to 110 ms | 78–88 ms |
Key ECG Components Explained:
- Heart Rate: Measured in beats per minute (BPM), indicating how fast your heart is beating. A normal resting heart rate typically falls within the ranges above.
- P Wavelength: Reflects the electrical activity of the atria (the upper chambers of the heart). The duration should fall within the given ranges.
- PR Interval: Represents the time it takes for the electrical impulse to travel from the atria to the ventricles (the lower chambers). The duration should be within the ranges listed.
- QRS Duration: Represents the duration of ventricular depolarization (the electrical activity that triggers ventricular contraction). The duration should be within the indicated ranges.
What Does an Abnormal ECG Mean?
Results outside of these ranges could indicate a heart problem. For instance, an abnormally fast or slow heart rate may point to arrhythmia, while unusual P wave, PR interval, or QRS complex measurements could suggest other cardiac issues.
- Irregular Heart Rate: A heart rate outside of the ranges above, too slow (bradycardia) or too fast (tachycardia), may require further investigation.
- P Wave Changes: An abnormal P wave duration could indicate atrial enlargement or other atrial abnormalities.
- PR Interval Issues: A prolonged PR interval may suggest a conduction block in the heart.
- QRS Complex Irregularities: Changes in QRS duration could indicate bundle branch blocks.
Important Note
An ECG is just one piece of the diagnostic puzzle. A doctor will consider your medical history, symptoms, and other test results to make a complete assessment of your heart health. A "good" ECG alone does not mean you have no health issues. If your results are abnormal, your physician may recommend additional tests and/or treatment.
