What does a Q wave on an electrocardiogram (ECG) mean?
Disease description:
Recently, during a routine physical examination, I had an electrocardiogram (ECG) performed. On my ECG report, I noticed a Q wave. What does a Q wave on an ECG signify?
Doctor's answer (2)
Dr. Liu Shilei
Electrocardiogram (ECG): If Q waves appear in leads V5 and V6, they are generally considered normal and do not indicate disease. However, if Q waves appear in other ECG leads, they are regarded as pathological Q waves—most commonly associated with acute myocardial infarction. Such cases are often accompanied by symptoms including chest tightness, chest pain, and dyspnea, necessitating prompt hospitalization and treatment. Therefore, management must be tailored based on the specific clinical context; with appropriate, targeted therapy, most patients experience improvement.
