Sports Cardiology

Blood tests measure your cholesterol levels, including triglycerides and other fats in your blood that can affect your heart. Your glucose levels and hemoglobin A1c may be checked for indications of diabetes or pre-diabetes. Thyroid function and other tests look for associated endocrine issues. Special testing for inflammation markers such as C-reactive protein may also be part of a cardiovascular workup.

Small electrodes are placed on your skin to record your heart’s electrical impulses and rhythms. The results may help determine your risk for heart muscle damage or identify previous damage.

Also known as a stress test, this specialized test helps your doctor distinguish whether exercise-induced shortness of breath, chest pain, and/or fatigue stems from the lungs, heart, a skeletal/muscle issue, or a combination of these. It also measures your cardiorespiratory fitness level, which is an important indicator of your overall health. During this test, you’ll exercise on a stationary bike or treadmill (depending on your main type of exercise) while doctors monitor your vitals and your gas exchange with a mouthpiece.

An ultrasound probe is moved over the surface of your chest to capture moving images of your heart. This allows us to assess the dimensions, shape, valve structures, and overall function your heart chambers.

A stress echocardiogram is performed while you walk on a treadmill or ride a stationary bike, or when a chemical is used to stimulate the heart. Like a traditional stress test, a stress echo helps identify changes in your heart’s function during exertion.

Radio waves, magnets, and a computer create still and moving images of your overall heart structure, heart muscle function, blood vessels, and surrounding structures.

Radioactive dye is used during imaging to create pictures of blood flow through your heart. This test may be done while at rest or with exercise. It helps to evaluate overall heart function.

Our genetic counselors conduct comprehensive screening to detect congenital heart conditions (conditions a person is born with) that may manifest in athletes in their teens through middle age. In addition, there are now several genetic tests that can help predict your maximal performance capacity for your particular activity or sport.