Preventive Cardiology Clinic
There are many diagnostic tests available today which can show if you have heart or vascular disease. In individuals who have known heart or vascular disease these tests can show if there has been any progression.
If the goal is to evaluate your heart's rhythm then an electrocardiogram, Holter monitor, or event monitor may be indicated. If the size, structure, or function of your heart needs to be evaluated then an echocardiogram may be what you need. These tests can be very helpful if someone has high blood pressure, dizziness, palpitations, a murmur, edema (fluid retention), or shortness of breath, just to name a few.
If the goal is to rule out significant coronary artery disease then a stress test or a stress echocardiogram may be what you need. These tests are very helpful if someone is having chest pain, palpitations and/or significant shortness of breath while exercising.
If the goal is to determine your risk of developing coronary artery disease than a coronary calcium scan can be a very useful tool. A coronary calcium scan checks for calcium buildup in the coronary arteries. Calcium in these arteries may be a sign of heart disease. A high score on a calcium scan may mean a more aggressive plan for lowering your risk factors.