Heart check-up: the tests to take care of the engine of our life
Heart check-up: the tests recommended to take care of the engine of our life
The heart is the engine of our body, and protecting it means protecting our health in every way. High blood pressure, atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease and rhythm disorders are common conditions that can threaten our everyday wellbeing. That is why, as well as a healthy lifestyle, regular checks and targeted tests are essential.
At the CalatafimiMed Cardio Center we offer a complete pathway to monitor heart function in depth. The most commonly used tests include electrocardiogram, echocardiogram, stress test, Holter monitoring, cardiac MRI, coronary angiography and colour Doppler ultrasound.
These assessments can promptly identify rhythm changes, signs of heart failure, narrowed arteries or other abnormalities which, if detected early, can be treated more effectively.
Prevention remains the most powerful strategy: a balanced diet, regular exercise, less smoking and alcohol and regular checks are the basis for keeping the heart healthy in the long term.
Why is it important to check your heart regularly?
In Italy cardiovascular disease is still the leading cause of death. The latest epidemiological studies show a steady increase in chronic heart disease, with several risk factors widespread in the population: smoking, a sedentary lifestyle, overweight, high blood pressure, diabetes and family history.
That is why prevention plays a central role: monitoring the heart and acting at the right time can really make a difference.
How does a cardiology check work?
The pathway starts with a medical history and physical examination, key moments to understand the patient’s lifestyle, any symptoms or family history, and to assess parameters such as blood pressure, heart rhythm, breathing and physical signs that could point to circulation problems or heart failure.
Based on the information collected, the cardiologist may recommend one or more tests:
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Electrocardiogram (ECG): records the electrical activity of the heart and helps identify arrhythmias, ischaemia or other changes.
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Echocardiogram: uses ultrasound to create images of the heart and analyse the valves, chambers and blood flow.
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Stress test: assesses how the heart reacts during physical activity and can detect ischaemia or exercise-induced rhythm disorders.
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Holter monitoring: records the heartbeat for 24–48 hours during daily life.
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Cardiac MRI: gives extremely detailed images of the heart and its structures.
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Coronary angiography: checks for blockages in the coronary arteries.
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Colour Doppler ultrasound: studies blood flow, the valves and, if needed, the arteries of the neck.
How to protect your heart every day
An active life, a good diet and cutting down on risky behaviour are essential to keep the cardiovascular system working well.
Fruit, vegetables, fish, legumes, whole grains and moderate salt help reduce cardiovascular risk. Likewise, regular physical activity and keeping a healthy weight help control blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar. Cutting down on smoking and alcohol is an essential step to drastically reduce the likelihood of heart disease.
However, even with a healthy lifestyle, regular checks remain essential: periodic tests can identify changes that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Frequently asked questions
Which tests can I have to monitor my heart?
Depending on your needs, the cardiologist may prescribe an ECG, echocardiogram, stress test, Holter monitoring, cardiac MRI, colour Doppler ultrasound or angiography.
Is an ECG enough?
An electrocardiogram is an excellent starting point, but it often needs to be combined with other tests for a more complete picture.
How often should I have a cardiology check?
Generally every 1–2 years after the age of 40; more often if you have risk factors or symptoms.
Send us your request
*Waiting times refer to working days and to the first available specialist.
CalatafimiMed is in Palermo and is open from Monday to Saturday. For any further information you can contact the centre here.
