Why Heart Testing Matters
Heart disease may not always cause obvious symptoms early on, but changes in blood pressure, cholesterol, or heart rhythm can signal warning signs. Doctors use a combination of evaluations—starting with basic screenings and progressing to specialized imaging—to get a clear picture of your heart health.
Common Heart Disease Tests
1. Physical Exam & Blood Work
Your doctor will begin with a medical history, check vital signs like blood pressure, and order blood tests to measure cholesterol and other markers that influence heart disease risk. These results help assess your overall cardiovascular risk.
2. Electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG)
An EKG measures the electrical activity of your heart to detect irregular rhythms, signs of a prior heart attack, or current stress on the heart. It’s a quick, non-invasive test that provides valuable diagnostic information.
3. Echocardiogram
This ultrasound test uses sound waves to create images of your heart’s structure and function. It shows how well your heart pumps blood and whether the valves are working properly.
4. Stress Tests
Stress tests monitor your heart’s performance under exertion, either through exercise or medication. They help identify issues that may not show up at rest and can pinpoint problems with blood flow to the heart.
Advanced Imaging for Heart Disease
When more detailed information is needed, doctors may use advanced imaging technologies:
Cardiac CT Scan
A CT scan uses X-rays to create detailed cross-sectional images of your heart and blood vessels. Specialized versions—like coronary CT angiography and coronary calcium scoring—help detect blockages, narrowing, and plaque buildup in the coronary arteries.
Cardiac MRI
MRI uses magnets and radio waves to produce high-resolution images of your heart’s structure and function without radiation. It’s especially helpful for evaluating heart muscle disease, congenital abnormalities, and tissue detail.
Nuclear and Advanced Modalities
Tests like nuclear imaging and other functional studies can assess blood flow and metabolism in heart tissues, often used when traditional imaging doesn’t provide enough information.
Putting Tests Together: What Your Doctor Is Looking For
No single test tells the full story. Physicians interpret results from multiple studies to:
- Diagnose specific heart conditions
- Determine the severity of disease
- Plan personalized treatments
- Monitor progress or response to therapy
This team-based approach helps your doctor make informed decisions about your care.
Cardiology at IPMC
Why Choose IPMC for Heart Testing in Philadelphia
Convenient Location and Flexible Hours
Fast Appointments & Quick Results
Comfortable Outpatient Setting
Avoid the stress of a hospital visit. Our welcoming center is designed for efficiency and patient comfort
Experienced, Board-Certified Physicians
Your imaging is reviewed by experienced professionals dedicated to accuracy and personalized care.
Take Charge of Your Heart Health
Early testing and diagnosis are key to preventing serious heart problems. If you’re experiencing symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, or palpitations—or if you have risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or family history—talk with your doctor about heart testing.
- To schedule cardiac imaging or diagnostic testing at IPMC, call 215-464-3300.
- Visit us at 9908 E. Roosevelt Blvd., Philadelphia, PA 19115.
At Independent Physicians Medical Center, advanced diagnostics and compassionate care come together to support your heart health every step of the way.
