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We provide our users the most up-to-date and accurate information on the treatment and prevention of cardio pathologies in accordance with current American and European clinical guidelines.
The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a licensed physician for diagnosis and treatment.
Cardiovascular Investigations
Introduction
Cardiovascular investigations are essential for diagnosing and managing heart diseases. These investigations help assess heart function, detect abnormalities, and guide treatment decisions. This lecture will cover the most common tests used in cardiology.
1. Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG)
What is it?
An ECG records the electrical activity of the heart and can detect: - Arrhythmias (irregular heartbeat) - Previous heart attacks - Heart enlargement
How is it performed?
Electrodes are placed on the skin to record heart signals.
2. Echocardiogram
What is it?
An echocardiogram uses ultrasound to create images of the heart, helping assess: - Heart structure and function - Valve abnormalities - Blood flow issues
Types of Echocardiograms:
- Transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE) – Non-invasive, performed from the chest.
- Transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) – More detailed, performed via the esophagus.
3. Stress Testing
What is it?
A stress test evaluates how the heart responds to physical exertion or medication. It is useful for detecting coronary artery disease (CAD).
Types:
- Treadmill stress test – The patient exercises while ECG monitors heart function.
- Stress echocardiography – Uses ultrasound after exercise.
- Nuclear stress test – Uses radioactive material to examine blood flow.
4. Cardiac Catheterization & Coronary Angiography
What is it?
This invasive test involves inserting a catheter into the heart to visualize the coronary arteries using contrast dye.
Why is it done?
- Detects blockages in coronary arteries
- Measures heart chamber pressures
- Helps plan interventions like stenting
5. Cardiac MRI & CT Scan
What is it?
Advanced imaging techniques provide detailed heart and blood vessel images. - Cardiac MRI – Assesses heart structure, function, and tissues. - CT Coronary Angiography – Detects coronary artery narrowing non-invasively.
Conclusion
These investigations are crucial for diagnosing and managing cardiovascular diseases effectively. The choice of tests depends on patient symptoms and specific medical conditions.
Source recommendations
1. American Heart Association Guidelines on Cardiovascular Testing
- https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/fitness/fitness-basics/aha-recs-for-physical-activity-in-adults
- https://professional.heart.org/en/guidelines-and-statements
- https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/consumer-healthcare/what-is-cardiovascular-disease/heart-health-screenings
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/cir.0000000000000678
- https://professional.heart.org/en/guidelines-statements
2. European Society of Cardiology Guidelines on Cardiovascular Imaging
- https://www.escardio.org/Sub-specialty-communities/European-Association-of-Cardiovascular-Imaging-(EACVI)
- https://academic.oup.com/ehjcimaging
- https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Scientific-Documents/Recommendations-and-position-papers
- https://academic.oup.com/ehjcimaging/article/16/9/919/2399830
- https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Recommended-Reading/Cardiovascular-Imaging
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If you or your loved ones experience any of these symptoms, you should consult a doctor in time. Remember that self-medication can be dangerous, and timely diagnosis will preserve the quality and life expectancy.
The heart is an organ that does not know how to "keep silent" if something goes wrong. Chest pain, shortness of breath, swelling, dizziness, and rhythm disturbances are the symptoms that require our attention. The best prevention of heart disease is careful attention to your health, regular checkups with a doctor, and a healthy lifestyle. Take care of your heart, and it will serve you for many years!
Our advantages:
We monitor all innovations and changes in the field of cardiac disease treatment on a daily basis.
Every 3-5 years, half of the scientific approaches to treatment in the field of cardiology are reviewed as a result of specialized scientific discoveries. With us, you don't have to wait these years to learn about the best ways to treat you and your loved ones.