If you have heart disease symptoms like shortness of breath, chest pain, and heavy heartbeats, and your doctor has suggested getting an EKG test in Richland Hills, then you should take it. Additionally, it is good to have these tests done if you have a history of heart disease and also if you have diabetes and other risk factors. Moreover, you can check out our CT scan services in Richland Hills for the most reliable analysis.
Why do you need EKG and exercise stress tests?
EKG and stress tests are taken so your doctor can see the condition of your heart. A simple electrocardiogram test measures the activity of your heart. On the other hand, in a stress test, your heart is monitored when doing an exercise like running. Moreover, your doctor may suggest taking these tests if you have symptoms that may lead to heart disease. Similarly, you may need to take these tests when you have heart disease or severe chances of getting heart disease. These test results will help your doctor evaluate how your heart works and what should be done if there is a problem.
Be cautious before taking tests.
There is no need to take tests if you do not have any symptoms.
These tests are not useful to people who do not have any symptoms that may be related to heart disease. However, many people have made EKG tests a part of their routine checkups. For instance, we surveyed 1,200 adults between 40 and 60. These people have no history of heart disease or symptoms, and half of them had EKG or stress tests in the last five years. Additionally, there are better and more affordable ways to evaluate the condition of your heart, like our CT scan services in Watauga.
EKG tests may lead to other tests
These EKG and stress tests will cause no harm to you, however, if the results are unclear. This may lead to other tests and treatments that might affect you. For example, if the results of your electrocardiogram are confusing, the doctor may tell you to get a coronary angiography test. This process contains the radiation of 600 to 800 chest X-rays. It would be best if you tried to avoid it, as radiation hurts your body. These tests may also cause you to take treatments that are not necessary.
You may need to take drugs that you don’t need. Moreover, you may also need to go through a process called angioplasty. This procedure opens the arteries in your heart. This technique is quite beneficial for some people, but for many people, their lifestyle will be changed. Moreover, angioplasty causes a heart attack in one to two out of every 100 patients.
Cost of EKG tests
An EKG test can cost up to $50, and a stress test can cost up to $175. So why should you waste money on tests you don’t need? Similarly, if they lead to follow-up tests. It will even cost you more.
EKG process
There is no restriction on consuming food or liquid before taking an ECG test. It would be best to always tell the doctor about your medication before you have an ECG. In addition, you should also state if you are allergic to the adhesives as they are used to attach the electrodes. When going for the test, you may need to remove your upper clothing so that electrodes can be placed on your chest and limbs. For the results to be reliable, your skin should be dry and clean.
Risks associated with EKG
Most EKG tests are considered to be safe. The electrodes are put onto your chest. They don’t have any electrical shock or unpleasant sensations while the test is conducted. However, when they are removed, you might feel a little discomfort. In some cases, redness or swelling is also found.
What happens during an EKG?
This test takes only a few minutes. Most of the time, 10 electrodes are placed on your chest. You have to be stationary for the whole process so that there would be an error in the result.
After the EKG
There is no restriction after the test. You can perform the activities you usually do. The doctor will review the results of your heart test services in Richland Hills and discuss the proper steps. If there is an abnormality, there will be some additional tests. If you have a heart problem, the doctor will describe the treatment options.
Book an appointment at the ER of Watauga for the best and most reliable EKG and CT scan services in Watauga.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if your doctor has recommended an EKG test, it is important to take their advice seriously and consider going through it. An EKG, or electrocardiogram, is a non-invasive test that can help detect any abnormalities in your heart’s electrical activity. It is a simple and painless procedure that can provide valuable information about your heart’s health and function.
Early detection and treatment of heart problems can help prevent serious complications. While feeling anxious or hesitant about any medical procedure is understandable, it is important to trust your doctor’s expertise and prioritize your health. If you have any concerns or questions about the EKG test, do not hesitate to discuss them with your doctor to ensure you are fully informed and comfortable with the procedure.
