Clarity Backed by Expertise
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For most people, yes. Serious complications are uncommon — published figures put major complications at roughly one in five thousand tests. You are monitored continuously, and the team performing your test is trained to handle problems immediately.
The test does involve radiation. The dose depends on the camera and the protocol, and modern equipment uses considerably less than older systems did.
This test is not right for everyone. We will not perform it if you have unstable chest pain, a severe narrowing of the aortic valve, uncontrolled heart failure, or certain active heart rhythm problems. If we use the medication form of stress, we also avoid it in people with active wheezing or significant reactive airway disease.
If you are pregnant, we will look for another way to answer the question. If you are breastfeeding, there is a period afterward when milk should be expressed and discarded.
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No. An EKG records your heart's electrical activity as a tracing and takes a couple of minutes. An echocardiogram is an ultrasound that shows the heart's structure and motion. They answer different questions and are often done together.
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A cardiologist diagnoses and treats conditions affecting the heart and cardiovascular system, including coronary artery disease, heart failure, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, atrial fibrillation, and other heart rhythm disorders. We also provide preventive care to help reduce cardiovascular risk.
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Your first visit typically includes a review of your medical history, medications, symptoms, family history, and cardiovascular risk factors. Your cardiologist will determine whether additional testing is appropriate and create a personalized plan for your care.
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A cardiac stress test evaluates how your heart performs when it is working harder. Depending on your health and ability to exercise, the test may involve walking on a treadmill or using medication to increase the heart's workload.
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Mobile Cardiac Outpatient Telemetry (MCOT) provides extended, real-time monitoring of your heart rhythm. Monitoring may continue for up to 30 days, helping identify intermittent or difficult-to-capture arrhythmias.
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Remote Patient Monitoring allows certain health information to be collected through a connected device at home and transmitted to our care team. This can help your care team identify changes that may require attention.
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Yes. We evaluate and manage atrial fibrillation and other abnormal heart rhythms. Your treatment plan will depend on your symptoms, heart health, risk factors, and the type of arrhythmia you have.
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Yes. We provide ongoing heart failure management, including medication management, monitoring, lifestyle guidance, and coordination with your primary care provider.
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Preventive cardiology focuses on reducing your risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Care may include managing blood pressure and cholesterol, improving nutrition and exercise, addressing weight and smoking, and identifying other cardiovascular risk factors.
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We evaluate your blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and overall cardiovascular risk to develop a personalized treatment plan. This may include lifestyle changes, dietary guidance, and medications when appropriate.
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You may benefit from a cardiology evaluation if you experience chest discomfort, shortness of breath, palpitations, dizziness, fainting, or have conditions such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol. A family history of heart disease or an abnormal test result may also be a reason for evaluation.

