EKG

Key Diagnostic Capabilities of a 12-Lead ECG

  • Heart Attacks: A 12-lead ECG can identify signs of a heart attack by detecting changes in the heart's electrical activity, which may indicate damage to the heart muscle.

  • Arrhythmias: This test is essential for diagnosing irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias), including tachycardia (fast heart rate) and bradycardia (slow heart rate).

  • Poor Blood Flow: It can reveal issues related to inadequate blood flow to the heart muscle, which can be a precursor to a heart attack.

  • Heart Valve Problems: The ECG can help identify abnormalities in heart valve function, which may affect overall heart health.

  • Enlarged Heart Chambers: A 12-lead ECG can indicate if the heart chambers are enlarged, which may suggest underlying heart conditions.

Screening Echocardiogram

The echocardiogram is a key diagnostic tool in assessing heart health. It provides valuable insights into the heart's structure and function, helping to diagnose and monitor various heart conditions. Key diagnostic values include:

  • Ejection Fraction (EF): Measures the percentage of blood pumped out of the left ventricle with each beat. A normal EF is typically between 55% and 70%.

  • Chamber Size: Evaluates the size and thickness of the heart's chambers, which can indicate heart disease or other conditions.

  • Valve Function: Assesses the functionality of the heart's valves, which regulate blood flow and prevent backward flow.

  • Wall Motion: Identifies any abnormalities in the heart wall's movement, which can indicate previous heart attacks or areas not receiving enough blood.

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Carotid and Abdominal Aorta Screening

A carotid screening provides information about the condition of your carotid arteries, specifically focusing on the presence of plaque buildup (atherosclerosis) and the speed and volume of blood flow. This information helps assess your risk of stroke, as narrowed or blocked carotid arteries can restrict blood flow to the brain, potentially causing a transient ischemic attack (TIA) or stroke. 

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) screening involves using ultrasound to measure the diameter of the abdominal aorta, the main artery in the body. This helps identify aneurysms, which are bulges in the artery wall, and determine if they require monitoring or treatment. Screening is particularly recommended for men aged 65 and older, especially those who have smoked, as it can help prevent potentially fatal ruptures