What we do at the cardiology clinic in Torrevieja
We offer a comprehensive medical service. We are specialized in performing and interpreting the following tests:
Stress electrocardiogram
ECG monitoring – 24 hours
Blood Pressure Monitoring
Color Doppler echocardiogram
Pacemaker and defibrillator control
Electrocardiograms with your mobile phone
Resting ECG
What is it?
An electrocardiogram, abbreviated as EKG or ECG, is a test that measures the electrical activity of your heartbeat. This wave causes the muscle to squeeze and pump blood out of the heart. A normal heartbeat on the ECG will show the synchronization of the upper and lower chambers. The right and left atria or upper chambers form the first wave called the "P wave," following a flat line as the electrical impulse goes to the lower chambers.
The lower chambers or right and left ventricles form the next wave called the "QRS complex." The final wave or "T wave" represents electrical recovery or return to a resting state for the ventricles.
Sensors attached to the skin are used to detect the electrical signals produced by your heart each time it beats. These signals are recorded by a machine and watched by a doctor to see if they are unusual.
An ECG can be ordered by a heart specialist (cardiologist) or any doctor. The test can be carried out by a specially trained health professional in a hospital, clinic or at your GP's surgery.
Why is it done?
An ECG provides two main types of information. First, by measuring the time intervals on the ECG, a doctor can determine how long it takes for the electrical wave to pass through the heart. Finding out how long it takes for a wave to travel from one part of the heart to the next shows whether the electrical activity is normal or slow, fast or irregular. Second, by measuring the amount of electrical activity passing through the heart muscle, a cardiologist can determine whether parts of the heart are too large or overworked.
Does it hurt?
No. There is no pain or risk associated with having an EKG. When the EKG labels are removed, there may be some minor discomfort.
Is it dangerous?
No. The machine only records the ECG. It does not send electricity to the body.
Stress test
A stress test, sometimes called an exercise test or ergometry, helps your doctor find out how well your heart is working. As your body works harder during the test, it requires more oxygen, so your heart must pump more blood. The test can show if blood supply is reduced in the arteries that supply blood to your heart. It also helps doctors learn the type and level of exercise that is appropriate for a patient.
A person taking this exam:
- It is connected to the equipment to monitor the heart.
- You walk slowly in place on a treadmill. The speed is then increased to a faster pace and the belt is inclines to produce the effect of climbing a small hill.
- You may be asked to breathe into a tube for a couple of minutes.
- You can stop the test at any time if necessary.
- They will then sit or lie down to have their heart and blood pressure checked.
Your heart rate, breathing, blood pressure, electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG), and how tired you feel are all monitored during the test. Healthy people taking the test are at very low risk.
It's almost the same as walking fast or climbing a large hill. Medical professionals must be present in case anything unusual occurs during the test.
A doctor may recommend a stress test to:
- Diagnose coronary artery disease.
- Diagnose a possible cause of heart-related symptoms, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or lightheadedness.
- Determining a safe level of exercise
- To verify the effectiveness of procedures performed to improve coronary artery circulation in patients with coronary artery disease.
- Predict the risk of dangerous heart-related diseases, such as a heart attack.