Cardiology Tests

• Exercise ECG

  

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  • What is an Exercise ECG?

    An Exercise ECG (also known as an exercise stress test or treadmill test) is a heart test that records your heart’s electrical activity (ECG), heart rate and blood pressure while you exercise. At WA Cardiology, Exercise ECGs are used to assess how your heart responds to physical exertion and to help identify heart conditions that may not be apparent at rest.

  • Why has my doctor ordered an Exercise ECG?

    Your doctor may request an Exercise ECG to:

    • Investigate chest pain, shortness of breath or exercise-related symptoms
    • Assess possible coronary artery disease
    • Investigate exercise-induced arrhythmias
    • Assess exercise tolerance and functional capacity
    • Monitor response to cardiac treatment or medication
    • Assess fitness for work, surgery or cardiac rehabilitation programs

  • What does an Exercise ECG show?

    An Exercise ECG provides information about:

    • Heart rhythm during increasing levels of exercise
    • Changes in the ECG suggestive of reduced blood flow to the heart
    • Heart rate and blood pressure response to exercise
    • Exercise capacity and symptom reproduction

    This helps your Cardiologist correlate symptoms, exercise performance and heart rhythm changes.

  • Is an Exercise ECG safe?

    Yes. An Exercise ECG is safe. The test is supervised by trained clinical staff, your heart rhythm and blood pressure are monitored continuously and the test can be stopped at any time if you feel unwell or reach your limit. Your safety is the highest priority throughout the test.

  • Do I need to prepare for the test?

    Please:

    • Avoid eating a large meal for 2–3 hours before the test
    • Wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes
    • Take your medications as directed by your referring doctor (some medications may be withheld – you will be advised by your referring GP if this applies)

  • What happens during the test?

    • ECG electrodes are placed on your chest
    • A blood pressure cuff is placed on your arm
    • You will exercise on either a bike or treadmill that gradually increases in difficulty
    • You will be asked to exercise to the best of your ability to achieve at least a minimum heart rate which is based on your age
    • Your ECG, heart rate, blood pressure, and symptoms are monitored continuously during exercise and for a period after.
    • You will be asked to exercise to the best of your ability to achieve beyond a minimum heart rate determined by your age.
    • You may be asked how hard you are working and whether you are experiencing any symptoms.

  • How long does an Exercise ECG take?

    The exercise portion usually lasts 6–12 minutes. Please allow 30 minutes in total for preparation, testing and recovery.

  • Will the test hurt?

    No. The test is not painful. You will experience normal exertion as with brisk exercise. You may stop the test at any time if you feel uncomfortable; however, it is important to exercise as hard as you can so that the test will be diagnostic.

  • Can I stop the test early?

    Yes. The test can be stopped at any time if you feel chest discomfort, become short of breath, feel dizzy or unwell or are unable to continue exercising. Please note that if you stop the test prior to reaching a pre-determined target heart rate, the test may be deemed inconclusive.

  • What happens after the test?

    You will be asked to wait in the waiting rooms for at least 10 minutes before leaving. You may return to normal activities unless advised otherwise.

  • When will I get my results?

    A Cardiologist reviews the Exercise ECG. If concerning findings are identified, they are communicated promptly. A report is sent to your referring Doctor, who will discuss the results with you. Please allow up to 5 business days for your results to be with your referring Doctor.

  • Does Medicare cover an Exercise ECG?

    In most cases, Medicare provides a rebate when:

    • You have a valid referral from a GP or Specialist
    • The test meets Medicare eligibility criteria

  • What if I feel unwell during or after the test?

    • Tell staff immediately if you feel unwell during the test
    • Seek urgent medical attention if symptoms occur after leaving the clinic
    • In an emergency, call 000

  • What if I need to cancel or reschedule?

    If you need to change your appointment, please contact WA Cardiology as early as possible so the appointment can be offered to another patient.

  • Who can I contact if I have questions?

    If you have questions before or after your Exercise ECG, please contact WA Cardiology – our clinical and administrative team are happy to help.

• Exercise Echo & Echo/Doppler

  

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  • What is a Stress Echocardiogram?
    

    A Stress Echocardiogram (often called a stress echo) is a heart test that combines an echocardiogram (heart ultrasound) with exercise to assess how your heart functions under physical stress.

    At WA Cardiology, Stress Echocardiography is used to assess heart muscle function, blood flow and valve performance when the heart is working harder.

    A baseline Echocardiogram is required prior to a Stress Echo as a separate appointment. This baseline information is used as a comparison during the Stress Echo and to make sure it is safe to proceed with the Stress Echo.

  • Why has my doctor ordered a Stress Echo?
    

    Your doctor may request a Stress Echo to:

    • Investigate chest pain, shortness of breath or exercise-related symptoms
    • Assess for coronary artery disease
    • Evaluate heart muscle blood supply during exertion
    • Assess heart valve function during exercise
    • Investigate abnormal exercise ECG findings
    • Guide management of known heart disease
    • Assess fitness for surgery or exercise programs

  • What does a Stress Echo show?
    

    A Stress Echocardiogram can show:

    • How well the heart muscle contracts during exercise
    • Areas of the heart that may not be receiving enough blood flow
    • Changes in heart function that only occur with exertion
    • Heart valve performance under stress

    Comparing images before and immediately after exercise helps identify problems not seen at rest.

  • Is a Stress Echo safe?
    

    Yes. A Stress Echo is very safe.

    The test is supervised by trained clinical staff. Your heart rhythm, blood pressure and symptoms are monitored throughout, and the test can be stopped at any time if you feel unwell or reach your limit.

    Your safety is the highest priority during the test.

  • Do I need to prepare for the test?
    

    Please follow these instructions:

    • Avoid eating a large meal for 2–3 hours before the test.
    • Wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes.
    • Take your medications as directed by your referring doctor (some medications may need to be withheld – you will be advised by your GP if this applies).

  • What happens during the test?
    

    During the procedure:

    • ECG electrodes and a blood pressure cuff are applied.
    • A baseline ECG, Blood Pressure and Echocardiogram images are taken.
    • You will exercise on either a bike or treadmill that gradually increases in difficulty.
    • You will be asked to exercise to the best of your ability to achieve at least a minimum heart rate which is based on your age.
    • Immediately after exercise, repeat ultrasound images of your heart are taken.
    • Your heart rhythm, blood pressure and symptoms are monitored throughout.

    You may be asked how hard you are working and whether you are experiencing any symptoms.

  • How long does a Stress Echo take?
    

    The exercise portion usually lasts 6–12 minutes.

    Allow 30 minutes in total for preparation, testing and recovery.

  • Will the test hurt?
    

    No. The test is not painful.

    You will experience physical exertion similar to a brisk walk or cycle. You may stop the test at any time if you feel uncomfortable.

  • Can I stop the test early?
    

    Yes.

    The test can be stopped at any time if you feel chest discomfort, become short of breath, feel dizzy or unwell or are unable to continue exercising. Please note that if you stop the test prior to reaching a pre-determined target heart rate, the test may be deemed inconclusive.

  • What happens after the test?
    

    • You will be monitored briefly during recovery.
    • ECG electrodes are removed.
    • You may return to normal activities unless advised otherwise.

  • When will I get my results?
    

    A Cardiologist reviews the Stress Echo.

    If significant or concerning findings are identified, they are communicated promptly.

    A detailed report is sent to your referring Doctor, who will discuss the results with you.

    Please allow up to 5 business days for your results to be with your referring Doctor.

  • Does Medicare cover a Stress Echo?
    

    In most cases, Medicare provides a rebate when:

    • You have a valid referral from a GP or Specialist.
    • The test meets Medicare eligibility criteria.

  • What if I feel unwell during or after the test?
    

    • Tell staff immediately if you feel unwell during the test.
    • Seek urgent medical attention if symptoms occur after leaving the clinic.
    • In an emergency, call 000.

  • What if I need to cancel or reschedule?
    

    If you need to change your appointment, please contact WA Cardiology as early as possible so the appointment can be offered to another patient.

  • Who can I contact if I have questions?
    

    If you have questions before or after your Stress Echocardiogram, please contact WA Cardiology — our clinical and administrative team are happy to help.

• Dobutamine Echo & Echo/Doppler

  

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  • What is a Dobutamine Stress Echocardiogram?

    A Dobutamine Stress Echocardiogram (often called a Dobutamine echo) is a specialised heart test that uses an echocardiogram (heart ultrasound) together with a medication called Dobutamine to assess how your heart functions under stress. At WA Cardiology, this test is commonly used when a patient is unable to exercise adequately on a bike or treadmill.

  • Why has my doctor ordered a Dobutamine Stress Echo?

    Your doctor may request this test to:

    • Investigate chest pain or shortness of breath
    • Assess for coronary artery disease
    • Evaluate heart muscle blood supply
    • Assess heart function when exercise testing is not possible
    • Investigate abnormal ECG or imaging results
    • Guide management of known heart disease
    • Assess suitability for surgery or medical procedures

  • How does Dobutamine work?

    Dobutamine is a medication given through a vein that increases heart rate and makes the heart beat more strongly. This simulates the effects of exercise on the heart while you remain lying on the examination bed.

  • What does a Dobutamine Stress Echo show?

    This test can show:

    • How well the heart muscle contracts under stress
    • Areas of the heart that may not be receiving enough blood flow
    • Changes in heart function that are not present at rest
    • Heart valve performance under stress

    Images taken at rest and when your heart reaches your target heart rate are compared to identify abnormalities.

  • Is a Dobutamine Stress Echo safe?

    Yes. A Dobutamine Stress Echocardiogram is safe. The test is supervised by experienced clinical staff. Your heart rhythm, blood pressure and symptoms are monitored continuously. The medication can be stopped immediately if needed and emergency equipment and trained staff are always present. Your safety is the highest priority throughout the test.

  • Do I need to prepare for the test?

    Please:

    • Do not eat for 2–3 hours before the test
    • Be well hydrated in the 24 hours before your test to make cannulation easier
    • Take your medications as directed by your referring Doctor (some medications, particularly beta blockers, may need to be withheld – you will be advised by your referring GP if this applies)
    • Please bring an up to date list of your medications
    • Wear comfortable clothing

  • What happens during the test?

    • A resting Echocardiogram is performed first
    • ECG electrodes and a blood pressure cuff are applied
    • An intravenous line (IV) is inserted into your arm
    • Dobutamine is given in gradually increasing doses
    • Ultrasound images of your heart are taken when you reach your target heart rate
    • Your heart rhythm, blood pressure, and symptoms are monitored throughout

  • How long does the test take?

    Please allow 40 minutes in total for preparation, medication administration, imaging and recovery.

  • What might I feel during the test?

    Common sensations may include:

    • A faster heartbeat
    • A warm or flushed feeling
    • Mild shortness of breath
    • Mild chest tightness

    These effects are usually short-lived and resolve quickly once the medication is stopped.

  • Will the test hurt?

    No. The test itself is not painful. You may feel brief discomfort, similar to a blood test.

  • Can the test be stopped early?

    Yes. The test can be stopped at any time if you feel chest pain, become short of breath, feel dizzy, nauseated, or unwell or if you request to stop.

  • What happens after the test?

    • You will be monitored briefly during recovery
    • The IV and electrodes are removed
    • You can usually return to normal activities the same day unless advised otherwise

  • Can I drive after the test?

    Dobutamine is a fast metabolising drug. Once you are feeling back to normal, you will be safe to drive.

  • When will I get my results?

    A Cardiologist reviews the Dobutamine Stress Echocardiogram.

    A detailed report is sent to your referring doctor, who will discuss the results with you.

    Please allow up to 5 business days for your results to be with your referring Doctor.

    Significant or urgent findings are communicated promptly.

  • Does Medicare cover a Dobutamine Stress Echo?

    In most cases, Medicare provides a rebate when:

    • You have a valid referral from a GP or specialist
    • The test meets Medicare eligibility criteria

    Any out-of-pocket costs will be explained before your appointment.

  • What if I feel unwell after the test?

    • Inform clinic staff if you feel unwell before leaving
    • Seek urgent medical attention if symptoms develop later
    • In an emergency, call 000

  • What if I need to cancel or reschedule?

    If you need to change your appointment, please contact WA Cardiology as early as possible so the appointment can be offered to another patient.

  • Who can I contact if I have questions?

    If you have questions before or after your Dobutamine Stress Echocardiogram, please contact WA Cardiology – our clinical and administrative team are happy to help.

• Echo/Doppler

  

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  • What is an Echocardiogram?
    

    An echocardiogram (often called an echo) is a painless ultrasound test that uses sound waves to create moving pictures of your heart.

    It assesses your heart’s structure, its valves and pumping function in real time.

  • Why has my Doctor ordered an Echocardiogram?
    

    Your doctor may request an echocardiogram to:

    • Investigate shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness, or palpitations
    • Assess heart valve problems (leakage or narrowing)
    • Measure heart pumping strength (ejection fraction)
    • Monitor known heart conditions
    • Check the heart after a heart attack, infection, or surgery
    • Assess causes of heart murmurs
    • Monitor the effects of certain medications or treatments

  • What does an Echocardiogram show?
    

    An echocardiogram can provide information about:

    • Size and thickness of the heart chambers
    • Heart valve structure and function
    • Heart muscle movement and strength
    • Blood flow through the heart
    • Pressure within the heart
    • Fluid around the heart (pericardial effusion)

  • Is an Echocardiogram safe?
    

    Yes. An Echocardiogram is very safe.

    It uses ultrasound (not radiation) and has no known risks or side effects, including for pregnant patients.

  • Do I need to prepare for the test?
    

    No special preparation is required:

    • You may eat, drink, and take medications as normal
    • Wear comfortable clothing (you will undress from the waist up and be given a patient gown to wear)
    • Avoid applying lotions or oils to your chest on the day, if possible

  • What happens during the test?
    

    • You will lie on an examination bed, usually on your left side
    • Small adhesive ECG dots may be placed on your chest
    • A Cardiac Sonographer will apply gel and move a probe over your chest
    • You may be asked to breathe in, breathe out, or briefly hold your breath

    The test is non-invasive and generally painless, though you may feel mild pressure from the probe.

  • How long does an echocardiogram take?
    

    Most Echocardiograms take up to 40 minutes.

    More complex studies may take slightly longer.

  • Will it hurt?
    

    No. An Echocardiogram should not be painful.

    Some patients may feel mild pressure where the probe is applied, but it is generally very comfortable.

  • Can I drive home afterwards?
    

    Yes. You can return to normal activities immediately after the test, including driving and work.

  • Who performs the Echocardiogram?
    

    The test is performed by a qualified Cardiac Sonographer with specialist training in heart ultrasound.

    Your results are then reviewed and formally reported by a Cardiologist.

  • When will I get my results?
    

    A Cardiologist will analyse your Echocardiogram.

    Please allow up to 5 business days for your results to be with your referring Doctor.

    A detailed report is sent to your referring Doctor, who will discuss the results with you.

    Urgent or unexpected findings are communicated promptly.

  • Does Medicare cover an Echocardiogram?
    

    In most cases, Medicare provides a rebate when:

    • You have a valid referral from a GP or Specialist
    • The test meets Medicare eligibility criteria

    Any out-of-pocket costs will be explained to you before your appointment.

  • What if I feel unwell during the test?
    

    Please let the Sonographer know immediately if you feel:

    • Short of breath
    • Dizzy or light-headed
    • Chest discomfort

    Your safety is always the priority.

  • What if I need to cancel or reschedule?
    

    If you need to change your appointment, please contact WA Cardiology as early as possible so the time can be offered to another patient.

  • Who can I contact if I have questions?
    

    If you have any questions before or after your echocardiogram, please contact WA Cardiology – the team will be happy to help.

• 24 Hour Holter Monitor

  

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  • What is a Holter Monitor?
    

    A Holter Monitor is a portable heart rhythm recording device that continuously records your heart’s electrical activity (ECG) over 24 to 72 hours (or longer in some cases).

    It allows your doctor to assess your heart rhythm during normal daily activities and sleep.

  • Why has my doctor ordered a Holter Monitor?
    

    Your doctor may request a Holter Monitor to:

    • Investigate palpitations, skipped beats, or racing heart
    • Assess dizziness, light-headedness, or fainting
    • Detect irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias)
    • Monitor known heart rhythm conditions
    • Check heart rhythm after starting or changing medication
    • Assess symptoms that do not occur during a standard ECG

  • What does a Holter Monitor record?
    

    The monitor records:

    • Heart rate and rhythm over an extended period
    • Abnormal heartbeats (fast, slow, or irregular rhythms)
    • Rhythm changes during symptoms, sleep, exercise or stress

    This helps link symptoms with heart rhythm changes.

  • Is a Holter Monitor safe?
    

    Yes. A Holter Monitor is safe.

    • It only records electrical activity – it does not deliver electricity
    • There is no radiation
    • It can be worn safely during sleep and daily activities

  • How do I prepare for the test?
    

    Preparation is simple:

    • Shower before your appointment (you cannot shower while wearing it)
    • If you are wearing the monitor for more than 24 hours, you will be instructed on how to remove and re-fit to shower.
    • Avoid applying lotions, oils or powders to your chest
    • Wear loose, comfortable clothing
    • Men with significant chest hair may require small areas to be shaved to ensure good electrode contact

    You may eat, drink, and take medications as normal, unless advised otherwise by your doctor.

  • What happens when the monitor is fitted?
    

    • Three electrodes are placed on your chest which are attached to a small recording device.
    • You will be given instructions and a symptom diary.

    Fitting usually takes 10-15 minutes.

  • What should I do while wearing the Holter Monitor?
    

    You should:

    • Go about your normal daily activities.
    • Keep the monitor on at all times.
    • Avoid getting the device wet (no showers, baths, or swimming).
    • Record symptoms, activities and times in the diary provided.

    Try to live as normally as possible so the recording reflects your usual heart rhythm.

  • What symptoms should I write in the diary?
    

    Please record:

    • Palpitations or fluttering.
    • Dizziness or light-headedness.
    • Shortness of breath.
    • Chest discomfort.
    • Fatigue.
    • Fainting or near-fainting.

    Include the time, what you were doing and how you felt.

  • Will it hurt?
    

    No. The Holter Monitor is not painful.

    Some people may notice mild skin irritation from the electrodes, which usually settles quickly once they are removed.

  • Can I sleep while wearing it?
    

    Yes.

    You should sleep as normal. The monitor is designed to record heart rhythm during sleep.

  • Can I exercise while wearing it?
    

    Light to moderate activity is usually encouraged unless your doctor has advised otherwise.

    Avoid activities that may:

    • Dislodge the electrodes
    • Cause excessive sweating
    • Get the device wet

    If unsure, ask the Cardiac Technician when the monitor is fitted.

  • How long do I wear the monitor?
    

    Most Holter Monitors are worn for:

    • 24 hours
    • 72 hours

    Some patients may be asked to wear the monitor for an extended period.

  • What happens after the monitoring period?
    

    • You return the monitor to the WA Cardiology at a specified time
    • The data is downloaded and analysed
    • A Cardiologist reviews the recording and prepares a report
    • Results are sent to your referring doctor

  • When will I get my results?
    

    If significant or urgent abnormalities are detected, they are communicated promptly.

    Your referring doctor will receive the report and discuss the results with you.

    Please allow up to 5 business days for your results to be with your referring Doctor.

  • Does Medicare cover a Holter Monitor?
    

    In most cases, Medicare provides a rebate when:

    • You have a valid referral from a GP or Specialist
    • The test meets Medicare criteria

  • What if the electrodes fall off?
    

    If an electrode becomes loose:

    • Re-attach it if possible
    • If unable to re-attach, leave it off and note it in your diary
    • Contact WA Cardiology on 6169 2016 if multiple electrodes come off

  • What if I feel unwell while wearing the monitor?
    

    If you feel unwell:

    • Record your symptoms in the diary
    • Seek urgent medical attention if symptoms are severe or worrying
    • In an emergency, call 000

  • Can I cancel or reschedule my appointment?
    

    If you need to change your appointment, please contact the clinic as early as possible so the monitor can be allocated to another patient.

  • Who can I contact if I have questions?
    

    If you have questions before, during, or after wearing your Holter Monitor, please contact your cardiology clinic – the team is happy to help.

• 3 Day Holter Monitor

  

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  What is a Multi Day Holter Monitor?

  A Multi Day Holter Monitor continuously records the electrical activity of your heart for 3 days as you go about your normal daily routine. The monitor is used to detect and assess abnormal rhythms of your heart and their relationship to any symptoms you may be experiencing.

  How does it work?

  A Cardiac Technician will place a small monitor on your chest with three ECG electrodes attached. You will be required to wear the monitor for 3 days (with the exception of when you shower).  You can remove the monitor to shower once per day and will be supplied with spare electrodes to re-fit the monitor.  You can ‘double tap’ the centre of the monitor to mark the times you experience symptoms (eg chest pain, palpitations, dizziness, etc).  A diary will be provided for you to note down important activities (eg exercise, housework, gardening etc) and describe any symptoms in further detail.  

  Each 24 hour monitoring period is analysed online and reported by a Cardiologist.  Once you have returned the monitor, a summary report will be sent to your referring Doctor.

  How do I prepare for the test?

  There is no special preparation for this test. You will need to return to the test centre that initially fitted the monitor on the day and at the time specified. It is very important to promptly return the monitor, as another patient will be scheduled to use it.

  How long does the test take?

  A Multi Day Holter monitor takes approximately 15 minutes to fit and explain.

• One Month ECG Event Recorder

  

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  What is One Month ECG Monitoring?

  A One Month ECG Monitor is a hand held cardiac event recorder. The compact monitor is carried around in your handbag or pocket for a month, readily available to record the electrical activity of your heart on demand as you go about your normal daily routine. The monitor is used to detect and assess abnormal rhythms of your heart and their relationship to any symptoms you may be experiencing. The monitor is patient activated, which means that you must press a button on the monitor to record your heart’s ECG whenever you feel symptoms.

  How does it work?

  A Cardiac Technician will explain in detail how to use the monitor at the time of your appointment.

  When you experience any symptoms such as palpitations or missed beats you need to record an ECG of your heart by placing the monitor on your bare chest wall and pressing a button on the machine. The monitors record up to six events. Once the monitor is full of recordings, you will need to telephone our Murdoch rooms to download the recorder and clear its memory. A diary will also be provided for you to note down important activities (eg exercise, housework, gardening etc) and any symptoms (eg chest pain, palpitations, etc) that you may experience. Once you have returned the monitor, the tracings will be reported on by a Cardiologist.

  How do I prepare for the test?

  There is no special preparation for this test. You will need to return to the test centre that initially fitted the monitor on the day and at the time specified. It is very important to promptly return the monitor, as another patient will be scheduled to use it.

  How long does the test take?

  A One Month ECG Monitor takes approximately 30 minutes to fit and explain.

• 24 Hour Blood Pressure Monitor

  

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  • What is 24-Hour Blood Pressure Monitoring?

    24-Hour Blood Pressure Monitoring is a test that measures your blood pressure repeatedly over a 24-Hour period while you go about your normal daily activities and sleep.

    At WA Cardiology, 24 hour BP Monitoring is used to obtain a more accurate picture of your blood pressure than a single reading taken in a clinic.

  • Why has my doctor ordered a 24-Hour BP Monitor?

    Your doctor may request a 24-Hour BP Monitor to:

    • Confirm or exclude high blood pressure (hypertension)
    • Investigate white-coat hypertension (high readings only in medical settings)
    • Detect masked hypertension (normal clinic readings but high blood pressure at home)
    • Assess blood pressure control over the entire day and night
    • Review response to blood pressure medications
    • Assess blood pressure patterns during sleep
    • Investigate symptoms such as dizziness or fainting related to blood pressure changes

  • How does the monitor work?

    A small recording device is attached to a blood pressure cuff which is then fitted to your upper arm. Blood pressure readings are taken automatically every 30 minutes during the day and every 60 minutes overnight. The device records and stores all readings for later analysis.

  • What does the test show?

    24-Hour BP Monitoring provides information about:

    • Average daytime and night-time blood pressure
    • Blood pressure variability throughout the day
    • Whether blood pressure falls normally during sleep (night-time dipping)
    • Effectiveness of blood pressure medications over 24 hours

    This helps guide accurate diagnosis and treatment decisions.

  • Is 24-Hour BP Monitoring safe?

    Yes, a 24 Hour BP Monitor is safe. The device only measures blood pressure, involves no radiation, and can be worn safely during normal activities and sleep.

  • Do I need to prepare for the test?

    Preparation is simple:

    • Wear loose, comfortable clothing
    • Avoid tight sleeves on the arm with the cuff
    • Continue your usual medications unless advised otherwise
    • Shower before your appointment, as you cannot shower while wearing the monitor

  • What happens when the monitor is fitted?

    A small recording device is programmed and attached to a cuff fitted around your upper arm. An initial reading will be taken by the technician, and you will be given instructions and a symptom/activity diary. Fitting usually takes 10–15 minutes.

  • What should I do while wearing the monitor?

    While wearing the monitor, you should:

    • Go about your normal daily routine
    • Keep your arm still when the cuff inflates
    • Avoid getting the monitor wet (no showers, baths, or swimming)
    • Record activities, sleep times, and any symptoms in the diary provided

  • Will it be uncomfortable?

    You will feel the cuff inflate regularly, which may be slightly uncomfortable, particularly overnight. This is normal and brief, and most people tolerate it well.

  • Can I sleep while wearing the monitor?

    Yes. Night-time readings are an important part of the test. Try to sleep as normally as possible.

  • Can I exercise while wearing it?

    Light activity is usually fine. However, avoid vigorous exercise that may dislodge the cuff, damage the device, or interfere with accurate readings.

  • What if the cuff feels too tight or slips?

    • Adjust it gently if possible.
    • Note the issue in your diary.
    • Contact WA Cardiology on 6169 2016 if the problem persists.

  • What if I feel unwell while wearing the monitor?

    • Record your symptoms in the diary.
    • Seek urgent medical attention if symptoms are severe.
    • In an emergency, call 000.

  • What if I need to cancel or reschedule?

    If you need to change your appointment, please contact WA Cardiology as early as possible so the monitor can be allocated to another patient.

  • Who can I contact if I have questions?

    If you have questions before, during, or after your 24-Hour BP Monitoring, please contact WA Cardiology on 6169 2016 during business hours. Our clinical and administrative team are happy to help.

• ECG With Report

  

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  • What is a 12-Lead ECG?
    

    A 12-Lead ECG (electrocardiogram) is a quick, painless test that records the electrical activity of your heart at rest.

    At WA Cardiology, a 12-lead ECG is commonly performed as a baseline heart test or to assess new or ongoing cardiac symptoms.

  • Why has my doctor ordered a 12-Lead ECG?
    

    Your doctor may request a 12-lead ECG to:

    • Investigate chest pain, palpitations, dizziness, or shortness of breath
    • Assess abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias)
    • Look for signs of a previous or current heart attack
    • Monitor known heart conditions
    • Assess the effect of medications on heart rhythm
    • Provide a baseline ECG for comparison with future tests
    • Assist with pre-operative or occupational medical assessments

  • What does a 12-Lead ECG show?
    

    A 12-lead ECG provides information about:

    • Heart rate and rhythm
    • Electrical conduction through the heart
    • Signs of heart muscle strain or damage
    • Evidence of previous heart attacks
    • Certain structural or inherited heart conditions

    It gives a snapshot of your heart’s electrical activity at the time of the test.

  • Is a 12-Lead ECG safe?
    

    Yes. A 12-lead ECG is very safe.

    It only records electrical activity – it does not deliver electricity.

    There is no radiation and it can be safely performed in all patients, including during pregnancy.

  • Do I need to prepare for the test?
    

    No special preparation is required:

    • You may eat, drink and take medications as normal
    • Wear comfortable clothing. You will need to remove clothing from the waist up. Females can leave their bra on
    • Avoid applying lotions or oils to your chest on the day of the test, if possible

  • What happens during the test?
    

    • Small adhesive electrodes are placed on your chest, arms, and legs
    • The electrodes are connected to an ECG machine
    • You will be asked to lie still and breathe normally
    • The recording takes only a few seconds

    The entire appointment usually takes 5–10 minutes.

  • Will it hurt?
    

    No. A 12-lead ECG is not painful.

    You may feel the electrodes on your skin, but there is no discomfort from the test itself.

  • Can I return to normal activities afterwards?
    

    Yes.

    You can resume normal activities immediately, including work and driving.

  • Who performs the ECG?
    

    The ECG is performed by a trained technician.

    The recording is then reviewed and interpreted by a Cardiologist.

  • When will I get my results?
    

    The ECG is reviewed by a Cardiologist.

    A report is sent to your referring Doctor, who will discuss the results with you.

    Please allow up to 2 business days for your results to be with your referring Doctor.

    If urgent or concerning findings are identified, they are communicated promptly.

  • Does Medicare cover a 12-Lead ECG?
    

    In most cases, Medicare provides a rebate when:

    • You have a valid referral from a GP or specialist
    • The test meets Medicare eligibility criteria
    • ECGs requested for pre-operative purposes or work medicals are not claimable from Medicare

    Any out-of-pocket costs will be explained before your appointment.

  • What if my ECG is normal but I still have symptoms?
    

    A normal ECG does not rule out all heart conditions.

    If symptoms persist, your doctor may recommend further testing such as Holter monitoring, Exercise ECG or Echocardiogram.

  • What if I need to cancel or reschedule?
    

    If you need to change your appointment, please contact WA Cardiology as early as possible so the appointment can be offered to another patient.

  • Who can I contact if I have questions?
    

    If you have questions before or after your 12-lead ECG, please contact WA Cardiology – our clinical and administrative team are happy to help.