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An EKG can determine if you have a normal rhythm (referred to as normal sinus rythm) but it cannot detect valve problems. The ventricles and atriums may be in fine working order but an Echo cardiogram is the preferred tool for determining the function as a whole.

To my knowledge, stress tests are being done less frequently these days, but are still ordered. I did one, and I’d never do it again. If a valve problem is detected, typically if the Patient is asymptomatic, one can go a long time before intervention is needed.

A Cardiac Catheterization is a process where a balloon is introduced into an artery and moved right up into the heart itself in order to determine if there is a need for stenting or CABG (coronary artery bypass) which can be 1,2,3, or even 4. Thus the term CABG x 3 etc.

Cardiac Caths have become relatively routine and are now done through the radial (wrist) artery. Pt is awake, and mildly sedated, and it is quick and mostly painless. I know because I had one.

I had an AVR (Aortic Valve Replacement) less than 2 years ago, and it was great. My problem was the result of a childhood illness. I have never smoked and I had no need for any stents or Bypass.

I knew about my issues for many years, though it was never a problem. Once I developed symptoms though, I was put into the queue and I am fortunate indeed.

Symptoms for me involved SOB (shortness of breath) and difficulty sleeping while supine (flat on the back.)

I am unrestricted in physical activities. I can run, swim, go on a roller coaster, anything.

I am sorry about your Bro. and if I were not so blessed, I might also be on the other side of the veil. I have lost brothers as well, prematurely.

I would not hesitate to see the Doctor for a second if I had symptoms of CHF, which is sort of what my symptoms were like.

I have a friend that at 36 had a heart valve replacement. He’s a new man after that.

"An EKG can determine if you have a normal rhythm (referred to as normal sinus rhythm) but it cannot detect valve problems. The ventricles and atriums may be in fine working order but an Echo cardiogram is the preferred tool for determining the function as a whole. "

Recently, after not going to a doctor only 3-times over a 50-year span (85-years old), had a dizzy spell that convinced my wife to make me get both of the above as well as a stress test...Everything looked excellent and dehydration was determined to be the cause of the incident...I've since gone on the wagon (for coffee) and am in my 45th coffee-less day. Withdrawal was a bitch...

"An EKG can determine if you have a normal rhythm (referred to as normal sinus rhythm) but it cannot detect valve problems. The ventricles and atriums may be in fine working order but an Echo cardiogram is the preferred tool for determining the function as a whole. "

Recently, after not going to a doctor only 3-times over a 50-year span (85-years old), had a dizzy spell that convinced my wife to make me get both of the above as well as a stress test...Everything looked excellent and dehydration was determined to be the cause of the incident...I've since gone on the wagon (for coffee) and am in my 45th coffee-less day. Withdrawal was a bitch...