What does a "q-wave" mean on an ekg?

Depends: Q waves if noted on an EKG can indicate an old heart attack or a normal variant. A hypertrophic cardiomyopthy pt can also have q waves. Clinical correlation is required and testing such as an echocardiogram or stress test is needed.

It depends: Sometimes it can just be a normal variant, sometimes reflects an old heart attack. Your physician can tell you which of the two it is.