Medical diagnosis require a variety of things. Usually, the doctor will need to understand your medical history, but they may also need to perform additional tests to determine what is wrong or what steps need to be taken. The choice and number of tests depend on several factors, including risk factors, history, current symptoms, and the doctor’s interpretation. For general information regarding tests, you can use the handy chart below to get a feel for the tests that your doctor requests you get to understand what those tests entail, and what you should expect when heading to the clinic.
The heart is a large muscle that transports blood around the body, and as such is one of the most important organs in the body. Tests displaying this symbol will generally revolve around determining any issues with the heart itself, or any general information related to the heart such as blood flow or resting / active heart rate, and it is advised to avoid caffeine or any other foods or drinks that could alter heart rate.
Tests displaying this symbol will require moderate to intensive physical activity for some duration of the test. When going to one of these tests, remember to wear comfortable clothing and shoes, and to avoid any activities that could make this type of testing difficult, such as overeating.
Despite the intimidating name, nuclear medicine is extremely safe. It generally is composed of a radioactive tracer either injected or ingested. The amount is enough that it can be detected and used to image the body, but small enough that it cannot cause any harm. Tests with this symbol will generally utilize radioactive tracers of some kind. If you have concerns about the tracer after the test, plenty of water or other liquids can help flush it out of your system, as it is passed when you urinate.
Tests with this symbol will require special procedures beforehand to ensure the validity and safety of the test. Please make sure to read closely and do exactly as the doctors request. Usually, this consists of avoiding food or drink beforehand that could interfere with some tests, but can also include medicines that could have negative interactions with any medicines or methods used in the test.
Tests that have this symbol still require a physician visit to get the necessary equipment, but the majority of the test is done 'at home', or are integrated into your daily life.
An ambulatory blood pressure monitor (ABPM) is a device which records your blood pressure
This test shows heart blood flow to detect angina, heart attack, and heart function
Similar to stress echo, but uses the doppler effect to determine speed and direction of blood flow
This test evaluates the blood supply to your heart muscle during periods of exercise and rest
This test evaluates how well your stomach empties its contents
This test assesses the function, size, and shape of your parathyroid gland
CorCare provides advanced cardiac and nuclear medicine testing and the specialized expertise of Royal College certified cardiologists and internists.
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