Abnormal ECG (EKG) in Children
An electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) records your child's heart electrical activity. When an abnormal finding is reported, expert interpretation determines whether action is needed — or whether reassurance is the right answer.
What Is an ECG?
An ECG measures the electrical signals that travel through the heart with each beat. It is a painless, non-invasive test completed in minutes. It provides information about heart rate, rhythm, and the electrical conduction system.
What Does 'Abnormal' Mean?
ECG findings described as abnormal range widely in significance. Some — like isolated voltage criteria — are common normal variants in children. Others, such as prolonged QT interval, pre-excitation (WPW), or heart block, require further evaluation.
When Should an Abnormal ECG Be Evaluated?
Any child referred by their pediatrician for an abnormal ECG should be seen by a pediatric cardiologist. ECGs ordered before sports participation, during illness, or as part of cardiac screening may reveal findings that need expert review.
What to Expect at Your Visit
We will review the original ECG tracing carefully, obtain a repeat ECG in our office if needed, and correlate findings with your child's history and physical exam. Additional testing (echocardiogram, Holter monitor, genetic evaluation) is arranged based on the specific finding.
Is an Abnormal ECG Dangerous?
The significance of an ECG finding depends entirely on the specific abnormality and clinical context. Many children with 'abnormal' ECGs have normal hearts. Some findings do require further testing or treatment — and those are the ones we are experienced in identifying and managing.
When to Seek Urgent Care
Seek immediate medical attention if your child experiences:
- Fainting or near-fainting, especially during exercise
- Sudden chest pain or tightness
- Known long QT syndrome with new symptoms
- Family history of sudden cardiac death at a young age
- Rapid regular or irregular heartbeat lasting more than a few minutes
- Child collapses or loses consciousness unexpectedly
Our Approach
- Carefully review the full ECG tracing with expert eyes
- Correlate ECG findings with history and physical examination
- Repeat the ECG in our office under controlled conditions if needed
- Order targeted additional testing based on the specific finding
- Provide a clear, understandable explanation of what the ECG shows
- Guide families through next steps with confidence
Frequently Asked Questions
Have concerns about your child's heart?
We're here to help.