Understanding your heart health starts here. If you’ve been experiencing chest pain, shortness of breath, or fatigue, or if your doctor has recommended cardiac testing, you might be wondering what comes next. Heart testing, including echocardiograms, Holter monitors, and stress tests, plays a vital role in detecting and monitoring heart conditions. At Helen Newberry Joy Hospital, we offer these essential cardiac diagnostic services close to home, with experienced staff and modern equipment.
What Are Echocardiograms and Stress Tests?
Echocardiograms (often called “echo tests”) use ultrasound technology to create moving images of your heart. This non-invasive cardiac test allows your healthcare provider to see how well your heart chambers and valves are working, check blood flow, and identify any structural problems.
Stress tests evaluate how your heart performs under physical exertion. During this heart screening, you’ll undergo an evaluation while medical staff monitor your heart rate, blood pressure, and rhythm. Some stress tests can be done by having you walk on a treadmill; however, there are also a few testing alternatives. The main purpose of these processes is to speed up the patient’s heart up to mimic exertion with medicine. Thus, these cardiac stress tests help identify issues that may not be apparent when you’re at rest, such as blocked arteries or irregular heart rhythms.
When Should You Consider Heart Testing?
Heart testing such as echocardiograms and stress tests may be recommended if you:
- Have chest pain, shortness of breath, or fatigue
- Have a history of heart disease or high blood pressure
- Need heart testing to monitor an existing heart condition
- Are preparing for surgery and need cardiac clearance
- Visible signs of swelling in the legs and feet.
- Have risk factors such as diabetes, high cholesterol, or family history of heart problems
- Heart Murmurs (sounds detected by stethoscope that resemble a whooshing or swishing sound caused by rough blood flow to the hear)
Your primary care provider or cardiologist will determine which heart health test is most appropriate for your situation. These diagnostic tests are essential tools for both preventing heart problems and managing existing cardiac conditions.
Why Choose Helen Newberry Joy Hospital for Cardiac Testing?
Trusted Heart Testing Close to Home
Helen Newberry Joy Hospital offers comprehensive heart testing services right here in Newberry, Michigan. You don’t need to travel hours away for quality cardiac care—our diagnostic imaging department provides the same advanced testing you’d find at larger facilities, with the personalized attention of a community hospital.
Experienced Staff and Modern Equipment
Our skilled cardiac technicians use state-of-the-art echocardiography equipment and stress testing technology to deliver accurate, reliable results. With convenient scheduling, we make it easy to prioritize your heart health.
Comprehensive Diagnostic Imaging Services
In addition to echocardiograms and cardiac stress tests, our Diagnostic Imaging Department offers a full range of services including CT scans, MRI, ultrasound, X-rays, and nuclear medicine. This means all your diagnostic needs can be met in one convenient location.
Cardiology Clinic for Specialized Care
In addition to diagnostic testing, Helen Newberry Joy Hospital’s Specialty Cardiology Clinic offers cardiology services from expert medical professionals such as Rob Duke, FNP. Our second-floor Specialty Clinic provides access to specialized cardiac care without the need to travel, bringing expert consultation rights to our community. This comprehensive approach means you can receive diagnostic testing, specialist evaluation, and ongoing cardiac care all in one location.
What to Expect During Your Heart Test
Echocardiogram Process
An echocardiogram is painless and typically takes 30-60 minutes. You’ll lie on an exam table while a technician moves a small device (transducer) across your chest. The test uses sound waves to create images of your heart, no radiation is involved. Most patients find the experience comfortable and straightforward.
Stress Test Process
For a stress test, there are several ways to measure how your heart performs during physical activity. Your provider will discuss the options recommended for you based on your medical history. One common approach is the walking method. You’ll walk on a treadmill that gradually increases in speed and incline while we monitor your heart’s response. The test continues until you reach a target heart rate or experience symptoms. The entire appointment usually lasts about an hour, with the actual exercise portion lasting 7-12 minutes. Wear comfortable clothing and athletic shoes.
Comprehensive Cardiac Care Beyond Testing
Heart testing is just the beginning of your cardiac care journey. Our stress tests are interpreted by MyMich cardiologists, while echocardiograms are read by cardiologists in Petoskey or Marquette, depending on the service location. If your test results indicate the need for additional support, Helen Newberry Joy Hospital offers comprehensive services to help you manage and improve your heart health.
Additional Cardiac Monitoring
Beyond echocardiograms and stress tests, we also offer electrocardiograms (EKG) and Holter monitoring for continuous 24-48 hour and/or 7 days heart rythem tracking. Medical Holter monitors are small, wearable devices that record your heart’s electrical activity over an extended period while you go about your normal daily routine. This comprehensive range of cardiopulmonary services ensures we can address all aspects of your heart health, from initial diagnosis through recovery and ongoing disease prevention.
Take the Next Step for Your Heart Health
Don’t wait to prioritize your cardiac health. Whether you’re experiencing symptoms or your doctor has recommended heart testing, Helen Newberry Joy Hospital is here to provide the care you need close to home. Our experienced team offers quality echocardiograms and stress tests with modern equipment, personalized attention, and convenient scheduling. From diagnostic testing to specialized cardiology consultations with our experienced nurse practitioner, we provide comprehensive care throughout your heart health journey.
All cardiac testing services at Helen Newberry Joy Hospital require an order from your healthcare provider. Once your doctor has determined that heart testing is appropriate for you, our staff will help you schedule a convenient appointment time.
- Echocardiogram Scheduling: Monday through Thursday, 8 am – 4 pm (by appointment)
- Stress Test Scheduling: Monday and Tuesday 8 am – 4 pm (by appointment)
- Holder Monitor Scheduling: Monday through Friday 8 am – 4 pm (by appointment)
- For questions or to schedule: Call 906.293.9237 Press 2 for radiology scheduling
