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Information
Heart exams
ECG, echocardiogram, Holter and exercise stress test.
01What does an electrocardiogram show?+
The electrocardiogram records the electrical activity of the heart.
It gives us information about the heart rate and can highlight findings that need further evaluation.
It is quick, painless and performed in the doctor's office.
02What does the Echocardiogram show?+
It allows us to see the heart as it works.
We evaluate, among other things, the size of the heart chambers, the function of the heart and valves, and blood flow.
03Does an echocardiogram use radiation?+
No.
An echocardiogram uses ultrasound and does not use ionizing radiation.
04How often should I have an echocardiogram?+
There is no one-size-fits-all time period.
In a person without a heart problem, regular repetition may not be necessary. When there is known heart disease, the timing of rechecking depends on the specific problem and its course.
05What does the Holter monitor record?+
It continuously records the heart rate for a longer period of time while you go about your daily life.
It can thus detect arrhythmias that did not appear during a simple electrocardiogram.
06Can I do my normal activities with Holter?+
Usually yes — and that's part of its usefulness.
We want to record your heart in real everyday conditions. You will be given specific instructions during fitting.
07How does ECG Holter monitoring differ from ambulatory blood pressure monitoring?+
An ECG Holter monitor records the electrical activity and rhythm of the heart.
An ambulatory blood pressure monitor automatically measures blood pressure repeatedly during the day and night.
These are different tests that answer different clinical questions.
08When is a exercise stress test needed?+
When we want to assess how the heart responds to exercise or to investigate specific symptoms and clinical questions.
It is not a routine test for everyone.
09When might a CT coronary angiogram be needed?+
In selected cases, when the possibility of coronary artery disease needs to be investigated and the test is appropriate for the specific clinical question.
Its need is decided after assessment of history, symptoms and overall cardiovascular risk.
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