Cardiology

A Guide to Common Cardiology Tests

If you believe you have heart problems, cardiology exams can provide the information you need to move forward. Your cardiologist can give you various tests to determine whether you have a condition and how to treat it. The tests can also confirm the extent of your issues and what you can do to combat them and once again have a healthy heart.

Factors that lead to heart problems

A healthy heart will effectively pump blood throughout the person’s body. However, various lifestyle choices and other issues can have a negative impact on this function. People who smoke are more prone to developing heart conditions than those who avoid tobacco. Also, people who eat poorly and consume large amounts of salt, sugar and fatty foods are at great risk of having heart disease and other related problems. Lack of exercise, age and family history are also common factors.

Echocardiogram

This test can detect congenital heart problems and unhealthy functions of the heart. It ordinarily takes up to an hour to perform this procedure. A technician will place a few stickers on the patient’s chest and will then use a probe to take pictures of the heart. The test is much like an ultrasound.

EKG

An electrocardiogram, or EKG, assesses the electrical activity of a person’s heart. It is a common test in the cardiology department. This test can show the cardiologist whether the heart has an abnormal heartbeat, whether it is too fast, too slow or irregular. It may also reveal whether there are abnormally large parts of the heart.

X-ray

A radiologist will take these pictures of the heart. It can measure the size and identify whether the heart is too small or too large. Some patients may worry that getting this test in the cardiology department will expose them to radiation. However, the amount is small and the staff will take every precaution possible to protect the patient.

MRI

Like an X-ray, magnetic resonance imaging will take a picture of the heart. This test can show the cardiologist what the heart looks like as well as how effectively it is working. Using magnet waves, the MRI will help assess the health of the blood vessels too. This procedure usually takes around half an hour. The patient must remain completely still during the entire process.

CT scan

This is yet another way for the cardiology department to get clear images of the patient’s heart. Catheters are not needed for this procedure. The doctor will place an IV in the patient and the overall process is usually faster than an MRI.

Getting the right information from the cardiology team

Your cardiologist will know which test or tests you need to get a proper diagnosis. After the test, the doctor will discuss the results with you and develop a treatment plan going forward. These tests have little pain or discomfort, so you should not have concerns about the procedures. The results can give you peace of mind to know what lies ahead and what you can do to find relief.

Get more information about Florida Premier Cardiology in Boynton Beach at https://boyntonbeach.floridapremiercardio.com.

Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.

Recent Posts

What Leg Spider Vein Treatment Can Do For You

Leg spider vein treatment is a popular solution for those wanting to address unsightly or uncomfortable veins on the legs. These small, web-like clusters of veins are often red, blue, or purple and are typically harmless but can cause cosmetic concerns or discomfort. Leg spider vein treatment from a cardiologist can help reduce or eliminate…

How Coronary Stents Improve Blood Flow And Heart Health

Coronary stents improve the blood flow to the heart. When blood flow is restricted, it is usually a result of heart disease or blocked or narrowed arteries. These conditions can lead to serious, life-altering side effects. Fortunately, coronary stents can significantly decrease the risk of said side effects with a minimally invasive procedure.Coronary stents are…

How An Echocardiogram Can Determine Whether You Need Angioplasty

Concerned you may need an angioplasty soon? Read on to learn more about this procedure. Treatments like angioplasty might be recommended after an echocardiogram, which is also informally known as an echo. An echo is an ultrasound procedure that uses sound waves to examine the function and structure of the heart. It is used to…

The Importance Of Regular Cardiology Check-Ups

Cardiology refers to the medical study and treatment of the cardiovascular system's external and internal structures and any conditions affecting it. Many people seek this medicine branch only through a recommendation or when a problem occurs. However, taking a proactive approach through regular checkups with a cardiologist can prevent issues before they occur, empowering you…

Florida Premier Cardiology (DG13585)

Share
Published by
Florida Premier Cardiology (DG13585)

Recent Posts

What Leg Spider Vein Treatment Can Do For You

While spider veins are usually not a serious medical issue, they can cause aching, burning…

2 weeks ago

How Coronary Stents Improve Blood Flow and Heart Health

Coronary stents are tiny tubes or coils comprising metal or mesh materials.

2 months ago

How an Echocardiogram Can Determine Whether You Need Angioplasty

Treatments like angioplasty might be recommended after an echocardiogram, which is also informally known as…

2 months ago

The Importance of Regular Cardiology Check-Ups

Preventative cardiology is your best chance at reducing the chances of developing the silent killers…

3 months ago

Navigating Heart Failure Treatment: A Comprehensive Guide

When other treatments are not enough to address heart failure, a cardiologist may recommend to…

5 months ago

Cardiologist Near Me: Finding the Right Doctor for You

Perhaps one of the most serious points to consider in a "cardiologist near me" search…

5 months ago