An echocardiogram is a medical test that uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the heart. In short, it's a heart ultrasound that shows a live picture of it beating. Apart from determining the pulse and its rhythm, the echocardiogram helps evaluate the heart's overall function. The procedure checks on the valves, walls, chambers, and blood vessels, as well. Why are Echocardiograms Done? Aside from the need for regular checkups, doctors use the test to look at the patient's heart ... [Read More]
heart health
Types of Cardiac Testing
If you ever experience chest pain and breathlessness, it’s highly likely that your doctor will recommend cardiac testing to check your heart’s condition. Based on the results of these tests, your doctor will advise the best treatment plan for your condition. The following are some of the main types of cardiac tests and what you can expect from each one: Angiogram This type of cardiac test involves the insertion of a small tube into an artery. The catheter is then threaded through to the ... [Read More]
What an Echocardiogram Can Tell You
An echocardiogram is a diagnostic tool that uses sound waves to produce images of your heart. Like an ultrasound, the echocardiogram allows the doctor to develop a comprehensive picture of your heart’s condition and efficiency. If your doctor is recommending you undergo an echocardiogram, know that he is on the right track to better understanding whatever symptoms you are experiencing of concerns you are having with regard to your heart function. What an Echocardiogram Can Tell You Simply put, ... [Read More]
Dangers of Blood Clots
Blood clots get a bad rap; that’s because clotting is necessary to stop bleeding. In fact, those who take blood thinners or whose clotting factors are compromised run the risk of developing painful and unsightly bruises or bleeding extensively after even the smallest nick or injury. However, blood clots can also be extremely dangerous, especially when they are the result of blood pooling in your body when it doesn’t need it to. When this happens, you run the risk of the clot traveling to a vital ... [Read More]
Precautions of a Nuclear Stress Test
Radioactive dye is an essential component of a nuclear stress test, as it’s used to produce vivid images of your heart and your blood flow as the heart is pumping. Radioactive dye is injected into the body to capture images of internal structures and to look for abnormalities. The radioactive nature of the dye is the main reason why some patients feel uneasy about undergoing the procedure. However, the test is primarily safe, and there are rarely any associated complications. Why Should I ... [Read More]
