Cardiovascular Testing Specialist
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Austin Square Medical Group
Gregory J. Facemyer, M.D., F.A.A.F.P.
Family Practice & Board Certified/Fellow of the American Academy of Family Physicians located in Youngstown, OH
As a trusted healthcare provider, Gregory J. Facemyer, MD, FAAFP, at Austin Square Medical Group in Youngstown, Ohio, offers patients the most advanced cardiovascular testing options, including nuclear stress tests, echocardiograms, holter monitors, event recorders, aortic aneurysm screenings, and peripheral vascular screenings to check for disease and help manage and guide treatment for cardiovascular issues. All testing is performed using state-of-the-art techniques and technology, so patients can feel confident in the care they receive. Book an appointment online or by phone today.
Cardiovascular Testing Q & A
What is cardiovascular disease?
Cardiovascular disease is a condition that affects your heart and blood vessels. Left undiagnosed and untreated, it can cause heart attack, stroke and even death. In the U.S., heart disease is the No. 1 killer of both men and women.
How can I tell if I have cardiovascular disease?
Some people have symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, pain in the arm, back or shoulder, irregular heartbeat, or other signs or symptoms, but others may experience no symptoms at all. For instance, many people suffer from high blood pressure, one of the primary risk factors for heart disease, yet they have no idea their blood pressure is elevated until they visit their doctor.
What are the risk factors for cardiovascular disease?
Risk factors include health issues like high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels, genetic factors such as a family history of heart disease, and lifestyle factors like smoking or obesity. Dr. Facemyer can help identify your risk factors during your appointment, as well as offering guidance for helping you reduce your risks for cardiovascular disease.
How can cardiovascular testing help me stay healthy?
Cardiovascular testing is designed to check for the telltale signs that can indicate you may be suffering from cardiovascular disease. Many men and women have cardiovascular disease without even knowing it, which means they may suffer a heart attack, stroke or other event without knowing they were at risk.
Dr. Facemyer offers a variety of tests to check cardiovascular function, including:
Electrocardiogram (EKG)
An EKG measures your heart activity while you’re at rest or moving. You’ll either lay on a table, walk on a treadmill, or ride a bike for this test.
Nuclear stress test
A nuclear stress test can help your doctor better determine your chances of suffering a heart attack or other cardiac event. First, a small amount of radioactive tracer is injected into your arm, and a camera records how blood flows through your heart when you’re at rest. Then, you will talk on a treadmill to boost your heart rate. You will be injected with another small amount of radioactive tracer, and a camera will again record how blood flows through your heart. The two sets of data will then be compared.
Echocardiogram (2D Echo)
In an echocardiogram, Dr. Facemyer uses ultrasound waves to view your heart and valves to search for irregularities, defects, and issues that can lead to congestive heart failure.
Peripheral vascular studies
Peripheral vascular studies measure blood pressure in your carotid arteries, aorta, legs and arms. A significant difference in the numbers may indicate peripheral vascular disease. This testing may also include an ultrasound.
Cardiovascular testing can help identify risk factors so you can take steps to decrease your risk of cardiovascular disease. If you've already been diagnosed with cardiovascular disease, testing can ensure your treatment is working as it’s intended, as well as guide new or additional treatments that may be more effective.
For comprehensive cardiovascular testing, book an appointment with Austin Square Medical Group online or over the phone today.
