Lab testing and diagnostics, including blood, urine, stool, genetic and saliva tests, are vital to both the diagnosis of illness, as well as the successful management of treatment. We work with several advanced laboratories to provide the most complete testing and diagnostic services. We have an on-site lab to perform venipuncture (blood draws), as well as other specimen collection requested by your doctor. This saves you time and money because you won’t need to make a second trip.
We offer a full range of testing options, from simple strep tests and urinalysis, to advanced assessment of cardiovascular risk markers and early-detection screening for cancer markers. Of course, we also perform pap tests, screening for HPV (Human Papilloma Virus) and advanced male and female hormone analysis.
Electrocardiography (EKG)
An electrocardiogram (EKG, ECG) is a test that measures the electrical signals that control the rhythm of your heartbeat.
The electrical activity of the heart can be detected through the skin by small pads called electrodes. During an electrocardiogram, the electrodes are attached to the skin on the chest, arms, and legs. The electrodes are also connected to a machine that translates the electrical activity into line tracings on paper. These tracings are often analyzed by the machine and then carefully reviewed by your doctor for abnormalities.
An EKG is a quick and painless test. EKG’s can detect if there is insufficient blood flow to areas of the heart, evidence of past heart attack, conduction abnormalities, and heart rate or rhythm abnormalities, and changes caused by previous heart disease. It is often times a good idea to include an EKG in your routine physical to establish a baseline reading of your hearts normal activity. This can prove extremely beneficial later on in detecting changes in the heart’s electrical activity and function that may occur with advancing heart disease.
However, an EKG can not predict cardiac risk or future heart attacks. For this reason, it is also important to have blood tests done to assess cardiac risk. Detecting your cardiac risk early can help you take preventative measures to lower your chances of heart attack.
Carotid Doppler Ultrasound
A carotid Doppler ultrasound can measure how well your blood flows through vessels of the neck, legs and arms. This non-invasive test is important for those who have known cardiovascular risk, diabetes, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), autoimmune conditions, and/or any other disease that may cause clotting or vessel damage and impediment of blood flow. The reduced blood flow may indicate an increased risk of stroke or pulmonary embolism. We partner with Boone Heart Institute to offer C-IMT scans (carotid ultrasounds) four times per year at our office, or upon request by your doctor. Call to see when our next scan is scheduled.
Lung Function Testing – Spirometry
Spirometry is a basic and frequently performed test to assess pulmonary (lung) function. A device called a spirometer is used to measure how much air the lungs can hold and how well the respiratory system is able to move air into and out of the lungs. Spirometry is used to diagnose lung disorders such as asthma, emphysema, chronic bronchitis, and other forms of COPD. The spirometer can measure the progress of the illness as well as the effectiveness of treatment.
The spirometer test is simple and can be quickly performed in our office. As with the EKG, baseline spirometer readings obtained in a routine physical exam can prove useful is assessing lung function down the road if problems arise. Anyone who smokes or is exposed to second hand smoke should certainly include this test to monitor lung changes that can occur with these exposures.
Imaging Services
X-Ray/MRI/CT Scans
We contract with outside imaging centers that provided us comprehensive and cost-effective imaging. We work with Health Images because they offer reliable, quick results.
Thermography
Thermography imaging is used to measure superficial heat emitting from the body and provide graphic mapping of vascularity in the area being imaged. This is a great risk assessment tool for women taking a proactive and preventative approach to breast health. Learn more about our thermography services here.
