There are many tests used to measure cardiac function. Among the most common cardiac assessment tools are the echocardiogram, cardiac stress test, and Holter monitor.
An echocardiogram is used to evaluate the size of the heart chambers and check for a thickening of the walls. A cardiac stress test monitors breathing and blood pressure while the heart is at rest and during exercise. During the test, you’ll get on a treadmill or stationary bike (radioactive dye may be used to visualize blood flow to the heart). A Holter monitor is a wearable device that records your heartbeat for a 24 or 48-hour period.
All three tests are non-invasive (minimally invasive if a radioactive dye is used), help lead to an accurate diagnosis, and help the doctor plan your treatment.
Why Would a Doctor Order This Test?
Cardiac tests are usually ordered for patients that present symptoms that are associated with a heart condition or disease. Examples of symptoms include:
- Chest pain
- Pain in the jaw, shoulder, arm, neck, and back
- Shortness of breath
- Irregular heartbeat
- A fluttering of the heart or feeling faint while playing sports, during exercise, and while engaging in other physical activities
- Pain, swelling, numbness, or a cold feeling in your extremities
- Poor sleep quality
Conditions a Cardiac Test Can Reveal
Cardiac testing can be used to diagnose the following:
Coronary artery disease – Characterized by a buildup of plaque in the arterial walls. The plaque will impede the normal flow of blood and oxygen to the heart and cause symptoms such as chest pain. An echocardiogram and cardiac stress test can reveal this condition. Coronary heart disease can lead to a heart attack if the plaque ruptures and forms a clot.
Arrhythmia – An irregular heartbeat is either too slow (bradycardia) or too fast (tachycardia). Arrhythmia can cause a fluttering of the heart or feeling faint and dizzy during physical activity. An echocardiogram and a Holter monitor can diagnose this condition.
Heart disease – Cardiac tests can reveal diseases that affect heart function, such as heart attack and heart failure. For instance, an echocardiogram can reveal a thickening of the heart muscles and how well the heart pumps, can be used to diagnose heart failure.
Doctors can also use a cardiac test to monitor patient progress and the effectiveness of treatment. A cardiac test may also be used in creating a fitness plan, especially for patients who have a low exercise tolerance. Physical activity is important to overall health, and with the aid of stress testing, patients can exercise safely and reap its benefits.
Cardiac Tests in Irmo, SC
If you think you or a loved one can benefit from cardiac testing, the physicians at SC Internal Medicine Associates & Rehabilitation can help. We provide echocardiogram, stress testing, and Holter monitoring to evaluate heart health and function.
SC Internal Medicine Associates & Rehabilitation is an independent practice, which allows us to provide friendly service and personalized care to our patients. For questions or to schedule your cardiac test, call us now at (803) 749-1111 or use our appointment request form.
