Impedence Cardiography (Cardiology)

Body Area: Arms / Hands
Body Parts: Palm
Symptoms: Cold Hands
Description:
This is an uncommon procedure used to assess the amount of fluid that is present in the structures in the chest. A tiny electrical charge (which cannot be felt) is introduced onto the skin of the chest, and electrodes placed on the neck and chest measure how well that charge can travel. Impedance means 'resistance'--so the test is measuring the resistance to conduction of the electrical charge. Fluids conduct the electrical charge better, so the more fluid there is in the heart, blood vessels, and lungs, the less impedance (resistance) there is.