Cardiovascular Rhythm Assessment
At Nadejda Tihomirovs PC, we understand that a healthy heart rhythm is essential for your overall vitality and well-being. That's why we offer Cardiovascular Rhythm Assessment services to evaluate the electrical activity and regularity of your heart. These non-invasive tests are crucial for identifying various heart rhythm abnormalities early, monitoring existing conditions, and ensuring you receive the most appropriate care to help maintain a strong and steady heartbeat.
Why is Cardiovascular Rhythm Assessment Important?
Irregularities in your heart's rhythm, known as arrhythmias, can sometimes occur without noticeable symptoms or may present subtly, only becoming evident as they progress. Cardiovascular Rhythm Assessment, often including an Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG), provides valuable insights into:
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Detecting Early Issues: Identifying conditions like atrial fibrillation, bradycardia, tachycardia, or other rhythm disturbances even before significant symptoms appear
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Diagnosing Cardiac Conditions: Helping to pinpoint the cause of symptoms such as palpitations, lightheadedness, dizziness, fainting, shortness of breath, or chest discomfort.
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Monitoring Disease Progression: For patients already diagnosed with a heart rhythm disorder, these assessments help us track how well your treatment is working and whether your condition is stable, improving, or worsening.
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Assessing Treatment Effectiveness: Evaluating the impact of medications, pacemakers, or other therapies on your heart's electrical activity and rhythm.
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Pre-Surgical Evaluation: In some cases, heart rhythm tests may be required to assess your cardiac health before certain surgical procedures.
What to Expect During a Cardiovascular Rhythm Assessment (ECG/EKG)
An Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) is a straightforward, painless, and quick test. Here's a general overview of what you can expect:
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Preparation: You'll be asked to lie comfortably. Small electrodes (sticky patches) will be attached to specific areas of your chest, arms, and legs. No special preparation is typically needed, but you should inform our staff about any medications you are taking.
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The Test: Once the electrodes are in place, they will detect the tiny electrical signals produced by your heart with each beat. This activity is recorded by the ECG machine, creating a graph of your heart's rhythm. The test usually takes only a few minutes to complete while you lie still and breathe normally.
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Post-Test: The results are immediately displayed and interpreted by our medical team. In some cases, we might recommend additional monitoring (like a Holter monitor for 24-48 hours) if intermittent rhythm issues are suspected.
Understanding Your Results
After your assessment, our healthcare provider will review your results with you in detail. They will explain what the readings mean in relation to your overall cardiac health and any symptoms you may be experiencing. Based on these findings, we will discuss any necessary next steps, which could include:
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Further diagnostic tests (e.g., Holter monitor, echocardiogram)
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A new treatment plan or medication adjustments
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Lifestyle recommendations (e.g., diet, exercise, stress management)
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Referrals to cardiologists or other specialists if needed
At Nadejda Tihomirovs PC, your cardiac rhythm health is important to us. If you have concerns about your heartbeat, experience palpitations, or if recommended by your healthcare provider, a Cardiovascular Rhythm Assessment can provide valuable insights. Contact us today to schedule your assessment.
