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 ... [Read More]
Cardiac Testing in Irmo SC
What Is the Best Test to Check for Heart Problems?
The human heart is the hardest-working organ in the body—ceaselessly pumping blood to keep the body constantly supplied with oxygen and nutrients while ridding it of its waste products. Just like you would your car engine, you need to get routine cardiac screenings to ensure your heart is working optimally. These also help your doctor identify manifestations of cardiovascular problems, especially if you are already showing symptoms or have strong risk factors for it. Listed below are a few ... [Read More]
Why Would a Physician Recommend That I Receive Cardiac Testing?
There are a number of reasons why a doctor would recommend cardiac testing. Among these are that you are showing symptoms of heart disease, you have strong risk factors for it, or you’ve had a recent heart attack. You may hear a lot of cardiac testing names when you visit your doctor. If you’re wondering what these are and why they’re required, let’s take a closer look at their descriptions and uses. Electrocardiogram (ECG) An ECG is a diagnostic test that measures your heart’s rhythm and ... [Read More]
Cardiac Testing for Surgical Clearance
Patients that are recommended surgery need to undergo cardiac testing for surgical clearance. You may be wondering why this is necessary. Surgery is a major undertaking, especially if anesthesia is used during the procedure. The results of cardiac testing can affect the choice of anesthesia and help doctors plan for surgery and make better postoperative recommendations. Cardiac events are a common cause of complications during surgery. Therefore, a risk assessment is an important step in ... [Read More]
Who Needs Regular Stress Tests?
Cardiac screening examinations, such as stress tests, have been instrumental in the prevention of heart disease progression and heart attack-related fatalities. Stress tests show how your heart responds during physical activity or “stress,” helping your internal medicine specialist identify problems with the blood circulation within your heart. They can effectively uncover potential blockages of your arteries—blood vessels that transport oxygen-rich blood from your heart to other areas of your ... [Read More]
