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Accurate heart and vascular diagnostics with advanced imaging.

Cardiac diagnostics and imaging help identify heart disease early, explain symptoms, confirm diagnoses, and guide treatment decisions. Many cardiovascular conditions can be silent or subtle at first, so the right test at the right time is important for cardiac imaging in Palos Heights, Illinois.

Heart and Vascular Specialists offers or coordinates non-invasive cardiac testing such as EKG, echocardiography, stress testing, rhythm monitoring, vascular imaging, and advanced imaging when appropriate.

Symptoms patients may notice

  • Chest pain, pressure, or discomfort
  • Shortness of breath, fatigue, or reduced exercise capacity
  • Palpitations, dizziness, fainting, or irregular heartbeat
  • Heart murmur, swelling, abnormal EKG, or abnormal blood tests
  • Risk factors such as diabetes, high blood pressure, cholesterol, smoking, or family history

How do we evaluate this condition

  • Selection of testing based on symptoms, age, risk factors, and prior results
  • Clear explanation of results and next steps
  • Coordination for advanced imaging or procedures when needed

Treatment and care options

  • Medication adjustment and risk-factor management based on test findings
  • Further imaging, rhythm monitoring, vascular evaluation, or referral when indicated
  • Personalized prevention or treatment plan after results are reviewed

Schedule cardiac testing or a diagnostic cardiology consultation.


Patient undergoing cardiac testing

All Non-Invasive Cardiac Testing

Non-invasive cardiac testing evaluates heart rhythm, blood flow, structure, valve function, and exercise response without surgery

Cardiac ultrasound examination

Echocardiography

An echocardiogram is an ultrasound of the heart. It shows the heart chambers, valves, pumping strength, wall thickness, pressure estimates, and blood-flow patterns.

Cardiac PET CT scanner

Cardiac PET CT Scan

A cardiac PET CT scan is an advanced imaging test that can evaluate blood flow to the heart muscle

Patient undergoing treadmill stress testing

Treadmill Stress Testing

Evaluates how the heart responds to exercise.

Electrocardiogram (EKG) testing

EKG (Electrocardiogram)

An EKG, also called an electrocardiogram, records the electrical activity of the heart using small electrodes placed on the skin.

Understanding the Importance of Early Cardiac Evaluation

Early cardiac evaluation helps identify potential heart conditions before symptoms worsen or complications develop. Diagnostic testing provides detailed information about heart function, circulation, and rhythm, allowing physicians to make informed clinical decisions. Even mild or occasional symptoms may warrant further assessment, especially for individuals with existing cardiovascular risk factors. Timely evaluation supports accurate diagnosis, effective treatment planning, and better long-term heart health. It also provides a clear baseline for monitoring cardiovascular changes during future follow-up visits.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Which cardiac tests commonly evaluate heart function?
Common cardiac tests include electrocardiograms, echocardiograms, stress tests, rhythm monitoring, vascular imaging, and advanced imaging studies, selected based on individual clinical findings.
How does echocardiography support heart evaluation?
Echocardiography uses sound waves to visualize heart chambers, valves, and pumping function, helping identify structural or functional abnormalities.
Can rhythm monitoring detect occasional heart irregularities?
Yes. Rhythm monitoring records heart activity over time, making it easier to identify irregular heartbeats that may not appear during a brief office examination.
Which symptoms may indicate the need for cardiac imaging?
Chest discomfort, shortness of breath, palpitations, dizziness, fainting episodes, swelling, abnormal heart sounds, or unexplained fatigue may lead to further diagnostic evaluation.
How does stress testing provide additional diagnostic information?
Stress testing evaluates how the heart responds to physical activity or medication-induced stress, helping identify circulation problems that may not appear at rest.
Can cardiac imaging assist with preventive heart care?
Yes. Diagnostic imaging may identify early cardiovascular changes, allowing appropriate medical management before more serious complications develop.
Which factors influence the selection of cardiac diagnostic tests?
Symptoms, age, existing medical conditions, cardiovascular risk factors, previous test results, and overall clinical assessment all contribute to the selection of the most appropriate diagnostic study.

Connect With Our Specialists

Let our team help you navigate your cardiovascular health with confidence. Use our Contact Us page to request an appointment or ask about the services that best fit your needs.