Diagnostic Testing
Diagnosing Your Condition
The first step in your care process is to understand the nature of your disease so that we can diagnose your condition. Your physician will usually draw from the following diagnostic options:
Medical History and Physical Examination
A medical history and physical examination are always a part of evaluating a person who has symptoms of chest pain or risk factors for heart disease.
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AngioScreen
Get a comprehensive heart and vascular check-up with AngioScreen. Book your screening now to find out your risk for heart disease and stroke. -
Cardiac CT Scan
A cardiac CT scan provides detailed images of your heart and blood vessels. Learn more and schedule your scan at Biltmore Cardiology. -
Carotid Ultrasound
A carotid ultrasound checks for blocked arteries that may increase stroke risk. Learn more and schedule your test at Biltmore Cardiology. -
Echocardiogram
Learn about echocardiograms, a non-invasive ultrasound test to check heart function and detect heart conditions. Schedule your echocardiogram today. -
EKG Test
An EKG test records your heart’s electrical activity to check for irregular rhythms or heart problems. Schedule your EKG at Biltmore Cardiology. -
Exercise Stress Test
An exercise stress test measures how your heart responds to physical activity. Learn what to expect and schedule your test at Biltmore Cardiology. -
Holter & Event Monitoring
Holter and event monitors track heart rhythms to detect irregular beats. Learn more and schedule your monitoring test at Biltmore Cardiology. -
Nuclear Cardiology
A nuclear stress test helps check heart blood flow and detect blockages. Learn what to expect and schedule your test at Biltmore Cardiology. -
Peripheral Arterial & Venous Ultrasound
A vascular ultrasound helps check blood flow in veins and arteries. Learn what to expect and schedule your test at Biltmore Cardiology.
No, most cardiac tests are painless. Some tests, like an exercise stress test, may cause mild discomfort from physical activity. If a contrast dye is used, you might feel a brief warm sensation.
For most tests, you can drive yourself. However, if you receive medication to relax or a contrast dye injection, you may need someone to drive you home.
Test times vary. Some, like an EKG, take only a few minutes. Others, like a Holter monitor, require 24 to 48 hours of continuous recording. Most imaging tests take 30 to 60 minutes.
Most tests require little to no preparation. However, some tests may require fasting, avoiding caffeine, or wearing comfortable clothing. Your doctor will provide specific instructions before your test.
Many cardiac tests are covered by insurance, but coverage varies. It’s best to check with your provider or call our office for assistance with insurance questions.
If your test shows a concern, your doctor will discuss the findings with you and recommend next steps. This may include additional testing, lifestyle changes, or treatment options.