Heart testing and diagnostics in Chattanooga
The experienced heart specialists within Parkridge Medical Group offer cardiac screening and diagnostic tests to figure out the cause of your heart or vascular condition. Your primary care physician or cardiologist may order several procedures to get accurate and complete information and help prevent future heart health issues. Our goal is to quickly and properly diagnose your condition in order to develop the most effective treatment plan and improve your quality of life.
Schedule an appointment with one of our providers to learn more about your heart health.
Our heart imaging services
Using advanced screening and imaging technology allows our team to offer preventive and diagnostic heart care, a key part of our comprehensive cardiology program. Our physicians can identify heart disease early and specifically, allowing for specialized treatment plans. Types of heart tests we offer include:
Cardiac catheterization
During cardiac catheterization, your doctor uses X-rays and a catheter (small tube) to see the inside of an artery or blood vessel. It can be performed as a diagnostic or interventional procedure in a cath lab, allowing a specialist to diagnose and immediately treat your heart disease or condition.
Cardiac electrophysiology/EP studies
If it's determined you have a heart rhythm disorder, your doctor may use cardiac electrophysiology to help you navigate your diagnosis. An electrophysiology (EP) study — also referred to as invasive cardiac electrophysiology — is a set of tests used to examine your heart's electrical activity. Our team not only performs EP studies but uses them to design a treatment plan that works best for you.
Carotid ultrasound
Carotid ultrasounds use sound waves to examine your carotid arteries' blood flow and structural details. Using this exam, your doctor can detect plaque in one or both carotid arteries in the neck and see whether the buildup is narrowing them and blocking blood flow to the brain.
Coronary angiogram
A coronary angiogram is an imaging procedure used to diagnose coronary artery disease, heart valve diseases and congenital (present at birth) heart abnormalities. During the procedure, a catheter is inserted into an artery or groin and gently guided up to the coronary arteries. Once there, a dye is administered and X-ray images are taken of the arteries.
Direct current cardioversion
Direct current cardioversion is a procedure using a defibrillator to administer a controlled electric shock to your heart to get your heart rhythm back to normal. Depending on your particular case, it may be used as an elective or emergency procedure.
Echocardiogram
An echocardiogram is an ultrasound of the heart. Using sound waves, an echocardiogram examines your heart's size, shape and motion. It also captures still moving images of your heart without exposing you to any radiation. This type of testing is commonly used to detect structural heart abnormalities.
We offer transesophageal echocardiograms, where a small transducer is guided down your throat into the esophagus. Medication is provided, so you do not experience any discomfort.
Holter monitoring
A Holter monitor is a wearable device used to record your heart's activity over time continuously. Essentially a portable electrocardiogram, the monitor records your heart's electrical activity for at least 24 to 72 hours after leaving your doctor. Your doctor may recommend you wear a Holter monitor if you have varying symptoms such as dizziness, fainting, low blood pressure, ongoing fatigue or palpitations.
Stress testing
A stress test, also known as an exercise stress test, shows your heart's performance during physical activity. Your heart pumps harder and faster during exercise, which is why a stress test can detect any blood flow problems within your heart. If you already have heart disease or heart arrhythmia, we may recommend a stress test to determine the severity of your condition and form a tailored treatment plan.
During a stress test, you walk on a treadmill or ride a stationary bike while our cardiologists monitor your heart rhythm, blood pressure and breathing.
