In the Non-Invasive Cardiovascular Laboratory (NICL) at Northern Heart Hospital, various tests are conducted to assess heart and vascular health without the need for invasive procedures. These tests include:
Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG)
Measures the electrical activity of the heart to detect arrhythmias, heart attacks, and other cardiac conditions.
Echocardiogram (ECHO)
Uses ultrasound waves to create images of the heart’s structure and function, helping to diagnose conditions such as heart valve disease, cardiomyopathy, and heart failure.
Exercise Stress Test (Treadmill)
Evaluates how the heart functions under physical stress. Patients typically walk on a treadmill or ride a stationary bike while their heart rate, blood pressure, and ECG are monitored.
Holter Monitoring
Involves wearing a portable device that continuously records the heart’s electrical activity over 24 to 48 hours, detecting irregular heartbeats or other abnormalities.
Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring (ABPM)
Measures blood pressure at regular intervals over 24 hours while the patient goes about their daily activities, providing a comprehensive profile of blood pressure changes.
