Tests and procedures
What each test measures, how long it takes, how to prepare and where it is done.
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Electrocardiogram
A recording of the heart's electrical activity at rest. It is the first test for chest pain, palpitations, or unexplained fainting.
What it feels like You feel nothing. Adhesive electrodes are placed on the chest, arms, and legs, and the machine only listens - it sends no current into the body.
Related conditions ArrhythmiasChest painHeart attack
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Echocardiogram
An ultrasound of the beating heart. It shows chamber size, how forcefully the heart pumps, and the condition of the valves.
What it feels like Warm gel is applied to the chest and a transducer is moved across it. No radiation, no needles. You may be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds.
Related conditions Heart failureHigh blood pressure
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Stress test
An electrocardiogram taken while the heart is working. This is the test for pain that only appears with exertion.
What it feels like It is real exercise and it is tiring: you walk until reaching a target heart rate or until a symptom appears. You are monitored throughout and it stops as soon as needed.
Related conditions AnginaChest painCardiovascular risk
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24 or 48-hour Holter monitor
A continuous recording of heart rhythm across one or two full days. This is the test for palpitations that come and go.
What it feels like You wear adhesive electrodes on the chest and a small recorder all day. It does not hurt; sleeping with it is awkward, and it cannot get wet.
Related conditions Arrhythmias
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Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring
Blood pressure measured over 24 hours, outside the office. It separates real hypertension from a nervous reading.
What it feels like A cuff inflates on your arm at set intervals, including at night. It does not hurt, but it interrupts sleep.
Related conditions High blood pressure
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Cardiac catheterization
A look inside the coronary arteries using a catheter and contrast dye. It confirms a blockage and, in the same session, can treat it.
What it feels like Done under local anesthesia with light sedation. You stay awake; you feel the puncture site and a passing warmth as the contrast goes in.
Related conditions Heart attackAngina
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Pacemaker
A device that holds the rhythm when the heart's electrical system no longer does so reliably. Covers implantation and follow-up.
What it feels like Implantation is done under local anesthesia with sedation. Later checks are non-invasive: the device is read through the skin with a wand.
Related conditions Arrhythmias
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Pre-surgical cardiac clearance
An estimate of cardiovascular risk before non-cardiac surgery, with recommendations for the surgical team.
What it feels like It is a consultation. Anything further depends on the individual case.
Related conditions Cardiovascular riskHigh blood pressure