Circulatory System
What Will a Cardiologist Do?
A thorough medical history and physical exam will give the doctor information needed to determine if further tests are required. At your first visit, the nurse will take your blood pressure. You may have a blood test to check your cholesterol, and you may have an EKG (electrocardiogram). This simple test graphically records the electrical activity of the heart and can reveal evidence of heart attacks or insufficient blood supply to the heart. Other tests, such as an echocardiogram, electrophysiology (EP), exercise stress test, vascular studies, or nuclear imaging test may also be ordered.
What is an Echocardiogram?
An echocardiogram, also called an echo test, uses sound waves to take moving pictures of the heart. This test is used to assess the pumping function of the heart and can show the doctor if there is heart disease or problems with the heart valves. It is painless and has no side effects.
What is an Electrophysiological (EP) Study?
An EP study evaluates the electrical function of your heart and helps your physician to evaluate rhythm disturbances accurately and reliably. It will help your physician to determine the most appropriate treatment option for you.
What is a Stress Test?
An exercise stress test, or treadmill test, is done to examine the heart’s ability to function under physical stress and exercise. The results help diagnose heart disease, causes of chest pain, and coronary artery disease.
What is a Nuclear Imaging Test?
Nuclear medicine is a specialty that has been practiced since the 1940s. A nuclear medicine test carries no greater risk than conventional X-ray procedures. The purpose of this test is to evaluate the cause of certain symptoms you may be having such as chest pain and/or shortness of breath. This test will help establish a diagnosis of heart disease.
What Will the Results of These Tests Tell the Doctor?
After your exam and any tests that were done have been reviewed, you and your doctor can determine the best treatment for your diagnosis. Your doctor may tell you that further diagnostic testing, such as cardiac catheterization, is necessary. This is usually done as an outpatient procedure at the hospital.
Your doctor may tell you that lifestyle changes, modifications to diet, and exercise are needed. You may need to be put on special medications. You can do plenty to get your heart in shape.
Healthy changes will help you feel and look better:
• Improve your eating habits
• Stop smoking
• Be more active, and EXERCISE!
• Take your medications
Should I Know the Signs of a Heart Attack?
Absolutely!
The signs of a heart attack are:
- Pain and/or pressure in the chest
- Pain spreading to shoulders, arms or neck
- Feeling faint or out of breath
- Nausea
- Sweating
If you experience any of these symptoms, seek emergency medical attention.
What Are The Tisks?
There can be some risk involved with certain diagnostic procedures, and in most cases they are relatively minor. Please ask your doctor to discuss the risks and benefits so that you are fully informed about any tests you may have.
Remember …
It is important to be your own best health advocate. A good way to do that is by committing to routine physical exams and diagnostic tests as often as is recommended by your cardiac specialist. Early detection of heart disease is the key to effective treatment.