Now that COVID-19 (Coronavirus Disease 2019) has been around for a number of months, and many people have not been receiving tests and treatment for serious health issues as they normally would for fear of exposure to the virus, it is time to get back on track of taking care of your health. Medical facilities nationwide have certain standards in place in order to avoid potentially spreading the coronavirus to patients and even to each other on staff, so it is indeed safe to go back and start taking care of your health again.
In particular, if you are at risk of cardiac issues or if you have had heart problems in the past, it is in your best interest to schedule an appointment at a clinic whose medical staff specializes in internal medicine. You do not want to have a heart attack because you have avoided healthcare due to COVID-19 – so let’s talk about some of the benefits of having cardiac testing, how some of them work, and where you can go to stay safe from the novel coronavirus while keeping yourself as healthy as possible.
Benefits of Cardiac Testing
Whether or not you contracted COVID, you will want to have a heart check to determine whether you need to be on any special medication to keep your heart pumping regularly and forcefully. If you were infected with the coronavirus, you will want to know of any damage that may have happened to your heart – because we are now finding that some patients who have had the virus are experiencing some long-term effects.
Once you have had your test, the results will be reviewed by your doctor. The internist will explain what your exercise limitations are (if any), ways to keep your heart healthy, and how to reestablish the highest function of your heart.
Types of Cardiac Testing
Your internist may recommend one or more tests to evaluate the function of your heart. These tests will also check for any abnormalities, even in cases where you don’t have any symptoms. Some of these tests include an electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG), a stress test, and 24-hour Holter monitor testing:
EKG
During an electrocardiogram (which is often abbreviated as “EKG” because of the original German spelling, Elektrokardiogramm), the cardiac machine you’re connected to will monitor the electrical signaling of your heart. Small electrodes will be attached to your skin via adhesives while the computer analyzes your heartbeat during the test.
The EKG will specifically let a doctor evaluate you for arrhythmia, or an abnormal heart rate. The test can also help your physician determine whether you have had a heart attack in the past, because a heart attack can sometimes be silent.
Stress Test
An exercise stress test evaluates how well your heart functions during physical activity. You’ll either run on a treadmill or ride an exercise bike. You will be connected to an EKG machine, and your internist will be able to look for signs that you may have an arrhythmia.
If you may be in danger of having a heart attack or other adverse reaction with an exercise stress test, your doctor may use a method whereby a serum is injected into your bloodstream to facilitate “stress” on your heart while you remain seated.
Holter Monitor
A Holter monitor is a device that consists of a monitor and electrodes. The electrodes will remain connected to your body while you wear the monitor, usually around your neck, while it continually monitors your heart rate during your normal daily routine. You’ll likely be asked to wear the monitor for one to two days. Your internist will then use the findings to determine whether you have an abnormal heart rhythm, which may have been undetectable via a regular EKG.
Professional Heart Evaluation After COVID-19 in Irmo, SC
Our internal medicine practitioners understand that COVID is affecting everyone differently, and it’s possible for you to experience heart problems following a coronavirus diagnosis. Also, we want to ensure that you maintain a healthy heart and that you have your regular heart exams despite the coronavirus if you have had prior cardiac issues, or if you have a family history of heart problems.
Our medical providers here at SC Internal Medicine Associates & Rehabilitation serve Irmo and the surrounding region of the Midlands. If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, contact our friendly staff today by calling us at (803) 749-1111 or by filling out our online appointment request form now. We look forward to seeing you here!
