Cardiology

Every personalized treatment plan begins with a thorough, accurate diagnosis. To identify cardiac conditions, we use a variety of diagnostic tests, including:

• Echocardiogram (ECHO)⁠ — This test helps diagnose heart disease and valve complications. Using ultrasound to create moving pictures that examine heart muscle function, an ECHO can determine the effectiveness of previous surgeries.
• Electrocardiogram (EKG) — This test uses electrode patches to measure heart rhythm, blood flow and high electrolyte abnormalities. If used at the right time, it can determine whether you are currently having a heart attack.
• Holter monitoring — This portable electrocardiogram uses electrodes that attach to your chest for a continuous recording of your heart's electrical activity. They are typically used for a period of at least 24 hours.

Chest pain can mean many different things. As such, it is important to know the symptoms of a heart attack, so you can act fast if one arises. We know how to diagnose and treat chest pain using a variety of different tests and procedures. Take action if you experience any of the below:

• Breaking out in a cold sweat
• Chest discomfort that lasts more than a few minutes or goes away and comes back
• Lightheadedness
• Nausea
• Pain in your back, neck, jaw or stomach
• Pain or discomfort in one or both arms
• Shortness of breath, with or without chest discomfort

In any of these instances, our emergency care team is ready 24/7 to offer lifesaving support in your time of need. If you are experiencing an emergency, please call 911 immediately.

Should you require a specialty treatment or cardiovascular service unavailable at our hospital, we offer you access to the comprehensive cardiology network at the HCA Virginia Health System. No matter where you are, we can refer you to an experienced professional who can skillfully treat your heart condition.