Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the different tests you had to take? Do you know what each test can determine?
Mended Hearts is providing information to help you discern the varying heart tests doctors may order:
• Echocardiogram: This test uses sound waves to create a video image of your heart and helps your doctor determine how much blood you heart is pumping. It can also show problems with the heart’s valves.
• Electrocardiogram (ECG): This test records you heart’s electrical activity though a series of electrodes that are attached to your skin. Your doctor can see problems with your heart’s rhythm.
• Chest X-Ray: HF can cause fluid to build up in your lungs, which can be seen with a chest x-ray.
• Exercise Stress Test: You might be asked to walk on a treadmill or pedal a stationary bike while attached to an ECG machine to measure how your heart responds to physical exertion.
You can visit our advocacy partner Mended Hearts’ website for more information: http://www.mendedhearts.org/Docs/P1006%20MH_Chronic_Heart_Failure_Guide.pdf.
