This procedure is often done in conjunction with an EP study and is used to treat some types of rapid heart beating. A test in which an ultrasound catheter is inserted into the artery so that the actual diameter of the vessel can be seen. This is an assistive device that is often used with patients who have acute heart disease. All of these procedures take from one to three hours to perform and are followed by a short hospital stay. Due to the specialized nature of these tests, physician referral is necessary.
Most people wait too long before seeking help for a heart attack.
For each minute people fail to get help, they may be incurring permanent damage. If you are experiencing one or more of the above symptoms dial 911. But there are exceptions. The following checklist will help you decide if you should consult a doctor before you start or significantly increase your physical activity. During or right after exercise, you frequently feel pain or pressure in the left or mid-chest area, left neck, shoulder or arm.