Transient Ischemic Attack
A transient ischemic attack (TIA) occurs when the blood flow to the brain stops for a brief period of time. A TIA is a stroke-like event caused by improper blood flow in the carotid artery. The carotid artery is located in the neck and it carries blood from the heart to the brain. When blood […]
Stress Echocardiogram
A stress echocardiogram is a diagnostic test used to evaluate the strength of the heart muscle as it pumps blood throughout the body. Using ultrasound imaging, the stress echocardiogram detects and records any decrease in blood flow to the heart caused by narrowing of the coronary arteries. The test, which takes place in a medical […]
Mitral Valve Prolapse
Mitral valve prolapse occurs when one of the valves of the heart does not work properly. The mitral valve is the valve between the upper and lower left chambers of the heart. When this valve does not close properly, it causes a condition known as mitral valve prolapse. Mitral Valve prolapse often causes no symptoms […]
INR Testing
INR (international normalized ratio) testing measures the speed at which blood clots. It is commonly used to measure the clotting time of patients taking blood-thinning medications, such as warfarin (Coumadin) or heparin. The results of this test are given as a ratio. INR testing is performed to evaluate the patient’s blood-clotting process to make sure […]
Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator
An implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) is an electronic device that is implanted under the skin, and is used to detect an abnormal heartbeat. An ICD is often implanted in individuals with arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats). This device uses electrical impulses to control dangerous arrhythmias that may lead to heart attack or sudden cardiac arrest. If an […]
Holter Monitoring
A Holter monitor is a small, portable device that continuously records the heart’s rhythms as well as the electrical activity of the heart. A Holter monitor may be used to capture information and check an individual’s heart rhythm if results of other tests, such as an electrocardiogram (EKG), have been inconclusive. The monitor is worn […]
High Cholesterol
Cholesterol is produced by the liver, the intestines and nearly all tissues in the body. Cholesterol is needed for the production of hormones, vitamin D, and the bile necessary to digest fats in food. Cholesterol also protects cell membranes from changes in temperature. Although a certain amount of cholesterol is needed, too much is unhealthy. […]
High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, occurs when the pressure of the blood flowing against the artery walls is above the normal range. Blood pressure is determined by the amount of blood the heart pumps and the blood flow resistance in the arteries. If the heart pumps more blood than normal, and the arteries […]
Heart Attack
A heart attack occurs when the coronary arteries, the blood vessels that deliver blood to the heart, are suddenly blocked and cannot supply the heart with blood and oxygen. This blockage causes damage and gradual death of the heart muscle and often requires immediate treatment in order to save the person’s life. Also known as […]
Heart Arrhythmia
An arrhythmia is an irregular or abnormal heartbeat. A heart arrhythmia may occur when the electrical impulses that control the beating of the heart do not work properly, causing the heart to beat too slowly, too rapidly, or irregularly. While most arrhythmias are harmless, they may be an indication of a serious underlying condition, such […]