Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) identifies if the heart is beating normally by measuring the heart’s electrical activity.
Echocardiogram is a Doppler ultrasound of the heart to evaluate heart function. Echocardiogram is also referred to as transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE), Doppler ultrasound of the heart, or surface echo.
Cardiac Stress Test ECG evaluates how the heart works during exercise. Cardiac Stress Test ECG is also referred to as an Exercise ECG, Stress Test, or Treadmill Test.
Vascular imaging is shows how blood flows in the both the veins and arteries. An arterial ultrasound test can screen for stroke, peripheral artery disease of the legs, and aortic aneurysm, a common and potentially fatal disease.
Event or Holter monitor records the heart rhythm. The device is worn for a period of time to record the heart’s rhythm when you have symptoms. Event or Holter Monitors are used to help heart doctors diagnose cardiac arrhythmia.
Nuclear cardiology studies (stress testing and heart strength assessment)show images of how the heart pumps blood while it is beating. Nuclear cardiology studies help heart doctors diagnose coronary artery disease and predict the prognosis of people with heart failure.
Stress echocardiography, also called stress echo, shows how the heart works during “stress” or exercise. The echocardiogram uses sound waves to produce an image of the heart on a monitor before and during exercise. Stress echocardiography help cardiologists diagnose coronary heart disease.
Cardiac catheterization provides information about heart function. During the procedure, the cardiologist advances a thin flexible tube through an artery and into the heart. An imaging technique records pictures of the heart while it beats. Cardiac catheterization can help cardiologists diagnose heart defects, heart disease, heart enlargement, blood clots, coronary artery blockage, valve problems or aneurysm. If a blockage is identified by cardiac catheterization, a stent may be inserted through the catheter. The stent holds open the coronary artery to allow greater blood flow.
Peripheral artery disease screening includes a review of your medical history and risk factors for peripheral artery disease, blood tests, ankle-brachial blood pressure measurements, and Doppler ultrasound. Additional imaging tests, such as intravascular ultrasound or magnetic resonance angiography may be recommended if necessary.
Peripheral artery angioplasty and stenting for peripheral artery disease is a procedure performed to open the artery and increase blood flow, thereby improving circulation and reducing symptoms.
Stroke screening may include a review of your medical history and risk factors for stroke, lab tests, and specific stroke screening tests. Ultrasound imaging is an easy way to create images of the carotid arteries in the neck and the blood flow through the blood vessels. Doppler ultrasound assesses the speed of blood flow and the amount of plaque buildup associated with carotid artery disease that may lead to a stroke. Another simple test used for stroke screening is EKG testing for atrial fibrillation, which can contribute to blood clots that cause strokes.
Venous ultrasound is a simple imaging assessment that creates images of veins to identify direction of blood flow and blockages. Venous ultrasound is useful for identify clots (deep vein thrombosis), varicose veins, and chronic venous insufficiency.
The progression of congestive heart failure or effectiveness of therapies is monitored with a variety of heart tests and heart imaging studies, which may include lab tests, electrocardiogram, echocardiogram, and coronary angiography.
Although congestive heart failure is a progressive heart disease, symptoms of heart failure can be managed with lifestyle changes, medications, and treatment of underlying medical conditions. Cases of sudden congestive heart failure may require surgery or hospitalization.