Investigations into your symptoms
There are many methods and diagnostic tests available to ascertain whether or not you have a problem. Here are some of those Dr Levy is versed in.
24hr blood pressure monitor
This monitor is programmed to measure blood pressure at regular intervals throughout the day and night, to assess the reliability of readings obtained in their clinic and see how the pressures change throughout the 24 hour period.
24hr Holter monitor
This is a monitor that records the ECG continuously for 24 hours. This may help in the diagnosis of palpitations, which do not occur all the time.
Electrocardiogram (ECG)
An ECG is a tracing of the electrical activity of the heart and involves applying several small patches to the arms, legs and chest.
Cardiac MR
This test studies the heart in great detail.
Chest X-ray
A chest X-ray makes an image of the heart, lungs, airways, main blood vessels and bones of the chest and spine using a small amount of ionising radiation.
Coronary angiogram
This test is usually performed as a day case. It is also known as cardiac catheterisation.
Coronary CT
There are two types of this coronary scan.
Dobutamine stress Echo
This test may replace the exercise treadmill test and the heart is studied with ultrasound (echo).
Event ECG recorder
This type of monitor is similar to the 24hr ECG but is used over a longer period, typically 5 days.
Exercise stress Echo
An echo is performed before and after maximum exercise either on a treadmill or bicycle.
Exercise tolerance test
An exercise tolerance test is an ECG carried out while the patient exercises on a treadmill.
Myocardial isotope perfusion
Occasionally this scan can be helpful if a stress echo or Cardiac MR is not feasible.
Transthoracic Echo
The standard echo (transthoracic echocardiogram) uses ultrasound to look at the structure and function of the heart.
