Exams and Tests

Physical examination and tests ordered by your physician will be based on your health history and risk factors.

Common heart tests include echocardiograms, electrocardiograms, and stress tests.

If you develop symptoms of fatigue, shortness of breath, or swelling during anti-angiogenic therapy, your doctor may order an ultrasound of the heart to assess heart function.

Typically, your cardiologist also will assess your heart rhythm activity with an electrocardiogram.

If you develop symptoms of chest pain or new shortness of breath with physical activity, your doctor may also order a stress test of your heart. A heart stress test examines your heart function during physical activity, which can detect problems with blood flow and blockages in your heart.

For patients with physical limitations, a chemical stress test can simulate exercise and help detect any heart blockages. Often imaging with ultrasound, nuclear images, or MRI is used during a stress test to reveal possible heart blockages.