Consultation

We offer consultations with specialist cardiology (heart) physicians.  Cardiovascular consultation is the first step to successful cardiac care and the most important aspect of medical treatment.  It is an opportunity for patients to discuss their cardiac problems and current complaints,  as well as understand the risks and complications.  A complete risk assessment will be completed and suggestions to help modify your risk factors will be given.

This visit will also help you to understand the various treatment methods and tests that may be ordered.  During the cardiac consultation your past medical history,  physical examination and tests to assess the risk of developing heart diseases will be discussed.

Early diagnosis may give a better prognosis and minimize any complications.

Echocardiogram/ECG

The heart is a two-stage electrically coordinated mechanical pump that circulates blood throughout the body. The anatomy includes four chambers and four valves. For the heart to function normally these structures need to be intact and the heart muscle needs to beat in a coordinated fashion so that blood flows in and out of each chamber in the proper direction.

An echocardiogram is an ultrasound test that can evaluate the size and pump function of heart chambers and the flow of blood from one chamber to the next through special one-way valves. An ECG is the most common and the easiest test to perform.

Technicians specially trained in echocardiography produce the images and videos, often using a special probe or transducer that is placed in various places on the chest wall to view the heart from different directions.

Cardiologists, or heart specialists, are trained to evaluate these images to assess heart function and provide a report of the results. The echocardiogram is just one of the many tests that can be done to evaluate heart anatomy and function.

An electrocardiogram (EKG, ECG) is the most common heart tracing done. Electrodes are placed on the chest wall and collect information about the electrical activity of the heart. Aside from the rate and rhythm of the heartbeat, the ECG can provide indirect evidence of blood flow within arteries to the heart muscle and the thickness of heart muscle and also sizes of some chambers of the heart.

Stress Test/Stress Echcardiogram

The most common reason for a stress test is to check for narrowed heart arteries that may be causing chest pain (angina). They’re also used for other purposes, including:

  • Identifying heart rhythm disturbances during exercise
  • Assessing fitness to drive
  • Evaluating general cardiovascular fitness
  • Determining suitability for surgery

Sometimes, a stress test is performed simply to provide reassurance about heart health, particularly following a recent episode of chest pain.

All stress tests at Apex Cardiology are conducted under the direct supervision of a cardiologist, with resuscitation equipment readily available for your safety.

We offer two types of stress tests. The choice of test depends on your referring doctor’s request and what is most appropriate for your individual needs.

Treadmill Stress ECG

During this test, your electrocardiogram (ECG), heart rhythm, and blood pressure will be closely monitored while you walk on a treadmill. A cardiologist will be present throughout the procedure.

At the conclusion of the test, you will receive a verbal summary of the results. A formal report will be sent electronically to your GP and any other relevant healthcare providers.

Treadmill Stress Echocardiogram

This test combines a treadmill stress test with ultrasound imaging of the heart. Your ECG, heart rhythm, and blood pressure will be monitored throughout the procedure, and a cardiologist will be in attendance.

Ultrasound scans (echocardiograms) are taken before and immediately after exercise to assess heart function, including valve performance and the heart’s pumping capacity.

As with the standard stress ECG, a verbal summary will be provided at the end of the test, and a detailed report will be sent electronically to your GP and any other required specialists.

Holter Monitoring

A Holter monitor is a small wearable device that records your heart rhythm. You usually wear a Holter monitor for 24 hours. The monitor helps to identify any irregularities (fast or slow) of your heart rhythm.

It is very helpful if you develop your symptoms (usually palpitations, sometimes dizziness/faintishness) while you are wearing the monitor and the cardiologist can identify any underlying rhythm disturbance.

If your symptoms are less frequent a longer monitoring period can be arranged.

24hr BP Monitoring

Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring (ABPM) is when your blood pressure is being measured as you move around, while living your normal daily life. It is usually carried over 24 hours.

It uses a small digital blood pressure machine that is attached to a belt around your body and connected to a cuff around your upper arm. It is small enough that you can go about your normal daily life and even sleep with it on.

24 hour BP monitor is commonly used to see if your BP at home (in your own environment) is normal as compared to at a doctor’s office.