Pulmonary hypertension occurs when the pressure in the blood vessels that carry blood from your heart to your lungs is higher than normal. It makes your heart work harder, which can lead to heart failure. Learn about causes, symptoms, prevention strategies, and treatment options.
pulmonary hypertension
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Lung vasculature
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Transparent Normal Lungs
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Pulmonary Hypertension
Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is high blood pressure in the arteries to your lungs. It is a serious condition. If you have it, the blood vessels that carry blood from your heart to your lungs become hard and narrow. Your heart has to work harder to pump the blood through. Over time, your heart weakens and cannot do its job and you can develop heart failure.
Symptoms of PH include
Shortness of breath during routine activity, such as climbing two flights of stairs
Tiredness
Chest pain
A racing heartbeat
Pain on the upper right side of the abdomen
Decreased appetite
As PH worsens, you may find it hard to do any physical activities.
There are two main kinds of PH. One runs in families or appears for no known reason. The other kind is related to another condition, usually heart or lung disease.
There is no cure for PH. Treatments can control symptoms. They involve treating the heart or lung disease, medicines, oxygen, and sometimes lung transplantation.
Source: NIH: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute
Additional Materials (32)
Lung Vasculature
Image by TheVisualMD
Heart and Lungs
The heart and lungs are the primary contents of the thorax. They are interconnected with very large blood vessels. The heart sends oxygen-poor blood through the pulmonary arteries to the lungs, which oxygenate it and return it to the heart through the pulmonary veins. The pulmonary arteries arise from one large pulmonary trunk, and then begin branching exponentially once they enter the lungs in order to reach the functional respiratory units and pick up oxygen. The smallest pulmonary veins then take the oxygenated blood backwards through the lungs and empty into the back of the heart through four larger pulmonary veins. The oxygen-rich blood is then pumped by the heart out into the body through the aorta. Deoxygenated blood from body tissues returns to the heart through the superior and inferior vena cava and the cardiac cycle repeats continuously. The pulmonary veins and arteries are the only case where arteries carry deoxygenated blood and veins carry blood that has been oxygenated.
Image by TheVisualMD
Heart in Man's Chest
The heart's only function is to circulate the blood that nourishes and sustains every cell in the body. Centrally located in the chest, it pumps the 6 quarts of blood your body contains through the entire circulatory system - over 65,000 miles of arteries, veins, and capillaries - three times a minute. This dramatic image of a man looking down at his heart focuses on its power and illustrates its vitality for our existence. Heart health is essential to a happy and healthy body and mind.
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Should Pulmonary Hypertension (PH) Patients Exercise?
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Testing for pulmonary hypertension
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How is Blood Pressure Treated
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What Is Pulmonary Hypertension?
Illustration of pulmonary hypertension in the heart
Image by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Illustration of pulmonary hypertension in the heart
During pulmonary hypertension, the arteries in the lungs can narrow and then the blood does not flow as well as it should, resulting in less oxygen in the blood.
Image by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
What Is Pulmonary Hypertension?
Pulmonary hypertension is a condition that affects the blood vessels in the lungs. It develops when the blood pressure in your lungs is higher than normal. About 1% of people globally have pulmonary hypertension.
Pulmonary hypertension makes the heart work harder than normal to pump blood into the lungs. This can damage the heart and cause symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, and lightheadedness.
Pulmonary hypertension can develop on its own or be caused by another disease or condition. There are five different groups of pulmonary hypertension:
Group 1: Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH)
Group 2: Pulmonary hypertension due to left-sided heart disease
Group 3: Pulmonary hypertension due to lung disease and/or hypoxia
Group 4: Pulmonary hypertension due to pulmonary artery obstructions, including chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH)
Group 5: Pulmonary hypertension with unknown and/or multiple causes
Over 50% of pulmonary arterial hypertension cases worldwide have no known cause. In the United States, the most common type of pulmonary hypertension is caused by left-sided heart disease, such as left heart failure. Several other medical conditions and environmental factors can raise your likelihood of developing pulmonary hypertension. Your healthcare provider will consider your symptoms and health history before conducting tests to diagnose pulmonary hypertension.
Treatments for pulmonary hypertension will depend on the cause of the condition. Many times, there is no cure for pulmonary hypertension, but your provider can work with you to manage the symptoms. This may include medicine or healthy lifestyle changes.
Source: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
Additional Materials (2)
Respiratory Tract
3D visualization of a midsagittal view of the respiratory tract, paranasal sinuses and oral cavity reconstructed from scanned human data. When air is inhaled into the lungs, it flows through large tubes called bronchi, branches into smaller tubes known as bronchioles, and ends up in the thousands of small pouches that are the alveoli. This is where the oxygen is transferred from the air into the bloodstream. Each alveolar sac, or air sac, is surrounded by a bed of capillaries, and the walls between the lung and the capillary are extremely thin. The walls are so delicate, in fact, that the inhaled oxygen can seep from the air sacs to bind to the hemoglobin in the blood, while the carbon dioxide and other waste gasses leave the blood and diffuse into the lungs where they can be exhaled.
Image by TheVisualMD
What is pulmonary hypertension? | Respiratory system diseases | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy
Video by khanacademymedicine/YouTube
Respiratory Tract
TheVisualMD
4:03
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khanacademymedicine/YouTube
How It Affects Heart/Lungs
Pulmonary circulation
Image by OpenStax College
Pulmonary circulation
Diagram of pulmonary circulation. Oxygen-rich blood is shown in red; oxygen-depleted blood in blue.
Image by OpenStax College
How Does Pulmonary Hypertension Affect the Heart and Lungs?
To understand pulmonary hypertension, it is helpful to understand the job of the heart and lungs, and the flow of blood.
As your heart beats, it sends blood throughout the body. The tissues of the body need oxygen from the blood to function properly. After the tissues use oxygen from the blood, they send oxygen-poor blood to the right side of the heart. Then, the heart pumps oxygen-poor blood through the pulmonary arteries to the lungs so the lungs can add oxygen to the blood. The force (pressure) of the blood against the walls of the pulmonary arteries is called the pulmonary pressure.
When this pressure gets too high, the pulmonary arteries become narrow or blocked. This makes the blood not flow as well, so the heart has to work harder to maintain blood flow into the lungs. Over time, this can cause damage to the heart and lungs.
Source: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
Fact Sheet
pulmonary artery angiogram
Image by ICA CTEPH
pulmonary artery angiogram
Example of a side-selective pulmonary artery angiogram (A and B right pulmonary artery, C and D left pulmonary artery) in digital subtraction technique of a patient with CTEPH. Panels A and C represent anterior-posterior projections, panels B and D represent lateral projections.
Image by ICA CTEPH
Pulmonary Hypertension
What is pulmonary hypertension?
Pulmonary hypertension happens when the pressure in the blood vessels leading from the heart to the lungs is too high.
With pulmonary hypertension, the blood vessels to the lungs develop an increased amount of muscle in the wall of the blood vessels. The heart pumps blood from the right ventricle to the lungs to get oxygen. Because the blood does not have to travel very far, the pressure in this side of the heart and in the artery taking blood from the right ventricle to the lungs is normally low—usually much lower than systolic or diastolic blood pressure.
When the pressure in this artery gets too high, the arteries in the lungs can narrow and then the blood does not flow as well as it should, resulting in less oxygen in the blood.
During pulmonary hypertension, the arteries in the lungs can narrow and then the blood does not flow as well as it should, resulting in less oxygen in the blood.
What causes pulmonary hypertension?
Some common underlying causes of pulmonary hypertension include high blood pressure in the lungs’ arteries due to some types of congenital heart disease, connective tissue disease, coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, liver disease (cirrhosis), blood clots to the lungs, and chronic lung diseases like emphysema. Genetics also play a role.
Pulmonary hypertension can happen in association with many other diseases, such as lung disease and heart disease. Heart failure is common in pulmonary hypertension.
What are the risk factors for pulmonary hypertension?
Pulmonary hypertension happens at all ages, including children, and its incidence increases with age.
Pulmonary hypertension is more common among women, non-Hispanic black people, and people age 75 or older.
What are the signs and symptoms of pulmonary hypertension?
The symptoms of pulmonary hypertension during the initial stage of the disease are common to many other medical conditions (e.g., difficulty breathing, fatigue). This often results in a delayed diagnosis until more severe symptoms arise, such as dizziness, chest pain, ankle swelling, or feeling the heart race or pound (palpitations).
How is pulmonary hypertension treated?
There is no cure for pulmonary hypertension. However, there are many different types of treatments, including
Inhaled medicine
Medicine given through the veins under the skin
Medicine to reduce swelling in the feet (diuretics)
Oxygen therapy
How can I prevent pulmonary hypertension?
While not all pulmonary hypertension can be prevented, you can take steps to prevent it by making healthy lifestyle changes and managing high blood pressure, coronary heart disease, chronic liver disease, and chronic lung disease from tobacco use.
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Additional Materials (1)
Pulmonary hypertension - an Osmosis Preview
Video by Osmosis/YouTube
0:48
Pulmonary hypertension - an Osmosis Preview
Osmosis/YouTube
Risk Factors
Overweight Man Holding Beer Bottle
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Overweight Man Holding Beer Bottle
Three-dimensional visualization reconstructed from scanned human data. Lateral view of head and torso of overweight man with large belly holding beer bottle; the skeleton and internal organs are visible. Regular beer drinkers tend to be overweight or obese, due to the high number of calories alcohol contributes to their diet. A body mass index (BMI) is a measure of body fat calculated by dividing a person's body weight in kilograms by the square of their height in meters, and is considered useful in determining health risks associated with being overweight or obese. A normal body mass index (BMI) is considered to be under 25, while overweight is under 30; anything greater than a value of 30 is considered to be obese. Overweight and obese individuals are at increased risk for many health conditions and diseases such as hypertension, high cholesterol, diabetes, heart disease, stroke, sleep problems, gallbladder disease, sexual dysfunction, and some cancers.
Image by TheVisualMD
What Raises the Risk of Pulmonary Hypertension?
Several factors can increase your risk of developing pulmonary hypertension.
Age: Pulmonary hypertension can occur at any age, but your risk increases as you get older. The condition is usually diagnosed between ages 30 and 60.
Environment: You may be at an increased risk of pulmonary hypertension if you have or are exposed to Asbestos or certain infections caused by parasites.
Family history and genetics: Certain genetic disorders, such as Down syndrome, congenital heart disease, and Gaucher disease, can increase your risk of pulmonary hypertension. A family history of blood clots also increases your risk.
Lifestyle habits: Unhealthy lifestyle habits such as smoking and illegal drug use can raise your risk of developing pulmonary hypertension.
Medicine: Some prescribed medicines used to treat cancer and depression may increase your risk of pulmonary hypertension.
Sex: Pulmonary hypertension is more common in women than in men. Pulmonary hypertension with certain types of heart failure is also more common in women.
Source: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
Additional Materials (2)
"Sometimes it's Pulmonary Hypertension" PSA
Video by PHAssociation/YouTube
Obese Abdomen with Visceral Fat, cross section
Visceral fat is found deep inside your abdomen, surrounding your vital organs. It's different from subcutaneous fat, the kind that's just under your skin. Too much visceral fat physically crowds your organs and your diaphragm. This can restrict your organs' blood supply and make it difficult for you to breathe deeply. Visceral fat secretes dangerous hormones and inflammatory chemicals. The blood that circulates through visceral fat goes directly into your liver through the portal vein. That means the substances your visceral fat produces all pour directly into your liver and into your bloodstream. Scientists think this may have important, and damaging, consequences, such as creating systemic inflammation.
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1:01
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Obese Abdomen with Visceral Fat, cross section
TheVisualMD
Causes
DNA Inheritance and the Respiratory System
Image by TheVisualMD / TheDigitalArtist
DNA Inheritance and the Respiratory System
DNA Inheritance and the Respiratory System
Image by TheVisualMD / TheDigitalArtist
What Causes Pulmonary Hypertension?
The cause of pulmonary hypertension is not always clear. Certain medical conditions can damage, change, or block the blood vessels of the pulmonary arteries, which can lead to pulmonary hypertension.
Some examples of medical conditions include:
Left heart diseases, such as left heart failure, which may be caused by high blood pressure throughout your body or coronary heart disease
Other heart and blood vessel diseases such as congenital (inherited) heart defects
Lung diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), interstitial lung disease, emphysema, or sleep apnea
Other medical conditions such as liver disease, sickle cell disease, blood clots in the lungs, or connective tissue disorders like scleroderma
Source: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
Additional Materials (4)
What is pulmonary hypertension?
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Symptoms
Chest Pain or Tightness
Image by TheVisualMD
Chest Pain or Tightness
Image by TheVisualMD
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Pulmonary Hypertension?
Symptoms of pulmonary hypertension are sometimes hard to recognize. People may have symptoms for years before being diagnosed. This is because many symptoms of pulmonary hypertension are also symptoms of other medical conditions.
Some symptoms of pulmonary hypertension include:
Chest pain
Coughing that is dry or produces blood
Shortness of breath
Dizziness that may lead to fainting
Nausea and vomiting
Hoarseness
Fatigue
Swelling of the abdomen, legs, or feet
Weakness
Wheezing, which is a whistling sound when you breathe out
Symptoms can get worse over time. For example, in the early stages of pulmonary hypertension, you may only have shortness of breath with exercise. As the disease progresses, shortness of breath will occur more often.
When to call 9-1-1
If you experience chest pain and shortness of breath, seek emergency medical care. This may be a sign of a heart attack or a blood clot in your lungs (pulmonary embolism).
Source: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
Additional Materials (1)
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Diagnosis
Pulmonary artery hypertension and emphysema
Image by James Heilman, MD
Pulmonary artery hypertension and emphysema
Pulmonary artery hypertension and emphysema
Image by James Heilman, MD
How Is Pulmonary Hypertension Diagnosed?
To diagnose pulmonary hypertension, your doctor may ask you questions about your medical history and do a physical exam. Based on your symptoms and risk factors, your doctor may refer you to a lung specialist (pulmonologist) or a heart and blood vessel specialist (cardiologist). Your doctor will diagnose you with pulmonary hypertension if tests show higher-than-normal pressure in the arteries of the lungs (pulmonary arteries).
Medical history and physical exam
Your doctor may ask you about any symptoms you have been experiencing and any risk factors such as other medical conditions you have.
Your doctor will also perform a physical exam to look for signs that may help diagnose your condition. As part of this exam, your doctor may do the following:
Check whether the oxygen levels in your blood are low. This may be done by pulse oximetry, in which a probe is placed on your finger to check your oxygen levels.
Feel your liver to see if it is larger than normal.
Listen to your heart to see if there are changes in how it sounds, and also to find out if your heartbeat is faster than normal or irregular or if you have a new heart murmur.
Listen to your lungs for sounds that could be caused by heart failure or interstitial lung disease.
Look at the veins in your neck to see if they are larger than normal.
Look for swelling in your abdomen and legs that may be caused by fluid buildup.
Measure your blood pressure.
Diagnostic tests
There are many tests that doctors can use to tell if you have pulmonary hypertension.
The most common tests to measure the pressure in your pulmonary arteries are cardiac catheterization and echocardiography. Normal pressure in the pulmonary arteries is between 11 and 20 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg). If the pressure is too high, you may have pulmonary hypertension. A pressure of 25 mm Hg or greater measured by cardiac catheterization or 35 to 40 mm Hg or greater on echocardiography suggests pulmonary hypertension.
Other tests may include:
Blood tests look for blood clots, stress on the heart, or anemia.
Heart imaging tests, such as cardiac MRI, take detailed pictures of the structure and functioning of the heart and surrounding blood vessels.
Lung imaging tests, such as chest X-ray, looks at the size and shape of the heart and surrounding blood vessels, including the pulmonary arteries.
Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) looks for changes in the electrical activity of your heart. This can help detect if certain parts of the heart are damaged or working too hard. In pulmonary hypertension, the heart can become overworked due to damage or changes in the pulmonary arteries.
Test for other medical conditions
Your doctor may order additional tests to see whether another condition or medicine may be causing your pulmonary hypertension. Doctors can use this information to develop your treatment plan.
Source: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
Additional Materials (1)
Testing for pulmonary hypertension
Video by Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust/YouTube
5:33
Testing for pulmonary hypertension
Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust/YouTube
Cardiac Catheterization Test
Cardiac Catheterization Test
Also called: Cardiac Cath, Heart Cath
Cardiac catheterization is an invasive procedure used to diagnose and treat some heart conditions. It lets doctors take a close look at the heart to identify problems and perform other tests or procedures on your heart.
Cardiac Catheterization Test
Also called: Cardiac Cath, Heart Cath
Cardiac catheterization is an invasive procedure used to diagnose and treat some heart conditions. It lets doctors take a close look at the heart to identify problems and perform other tests or procedures on your heart.
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https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/cardiac-catheterization [accessed on Feb 23, 2022]
https://medlineplus.gov/hearthealthtests.html [accessed on Feb 23, 2022]
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003419.htm [accessed on Feb 23, 2022]
https://www.verywellhealth.com/cardiac-catheterization-and-angiography-1745251 [accessed on Feb 23, 2022]
Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."
Additional Materials (6)
X-ray of the cardiac catheter examination
X-ray of the cardiac catheter examination by Werner Forßmann, 1929
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Chest X-Ray Test
Chest X-Ray Test
Also called: CXR, Chest X Ray, Chest Radiograph, Chest Radiography, Chest Film
A chest X-ray is an imaging test that uses electromagnetic waves to create pictures of the structures in and around the chest. The test can help diagnose and monitor conditions of the heart, lungs, bones, and chest cavity.
Chest X-Ray Test
Also called: CXR, Chest X Ray, Chest Radiograph, Chest Radiography, Chest Film
A chest X-ray is an imaging test that uses electromagnetic waves to create pictures of the structures in and around the chest. The test can help diagnose and monitor conditions of the heart, lungs, bones, and chest cavity.
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Use the slider below to see how your results affect your
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X rays are electromagnetic waves. They use ionizing radiation to create pictures of the inside of your body. A chest x ray takes pictures of the inside of your chest. The different tissues in your chest absorb different amounts of radiation. Your ribs and spine are bony and absorb radiation well. They normally appear light on a chest x ray. Your lungs, which are filled with air, normally appear dark.
Related conditions
A chest x ray is a painless, noninvasive test that creates pictures of the structures inside your chest, such as your heart, lungs, and blood vessels. "Noninvasive" means that no surgery is done and no instruments are inserted into your body. This test is done to find the cause of symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, chronic cough (a cough that lasts a long time), and fever.
Chest x rays help doctors diagnose conditions such as pneumonia (nu-MO-ne-ah), heart failure, lung cancer, lung tissue scarring, and sarcoidosis (sar-koy-DO-sis). Doctors also may use chest x rays to see how well treatments for certain conditions are working. Also, doctors often use chest x rays before surgery to look at the structures in the chest.
Chest x rays are the most common x-ray test used to diagnose health problems.
Doctors may recommend chest x rays for people who have symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, chronic cough (a cough that lasts a long time), or fever. The test can help find the cause of these symptoms.
Chest x rays look for conditions such as pneumonia, heart failure, lung cancer, lung tissue scarring, or sarcoidosis. The test also is used to check how well treatments for certain conditions are working.
Chest x rays also are used to evaluate people who test positive for tuberculosis (tu-ber-kyu-LO-sis) exposure on skin tests.
Sometimes, doctors recommend more chest x rays within hours, days, or months of an earlier chest x ray. This allows them to follow up on a condition.
People who are having certain types of surgery also may need chest x rays. Doctors often use the test before surgery to look at the structures inside the chest.
Depending on your doctor's request, you'll stand, sit, or lie for the chest x ray. The technician will help position you correctly. He or she may cover you with a heavy lead apron to protect certain parts of your body from the radiation.
The x-ray equipment usually consists of two parts. One part, a box-like machine, holds the x-ray film or a special plate that records the picture digitally. You'll sit or stand next to this machine. The second part is the x-ray tube, which is located about 6 feet away.
Before the pictures are taken, the technician will walk behind a wall or into the next room to turn on the x-ray machine. This helps reduce his or her exposure to the radiation.
Usually, two views of the chest are taken. The first is a view from the back. The second is a view from the side.
For a view from the back, you'll sit or stand so that your chest rests against the image plate. The x-ray tube will be behind you. For the side view, you'll turn to your side and raise your arms above your head.
If you need to lie down for the test, you'll lie on a table that contains the x-ray film or plate. The x-ray tube will be over the table.
You'll need to hold very still while the pictures are taken. The technician may ask you to hold your breath for a few seconds. These steps help prevent a blurry picture.
Although the test is painless, you may feel some discomfort from the coolness of the exam room and the x-ray plate. If you have arthritis or injuries to the chest wall, shoulders, or arms, you may feel discomfort holding a position during the test. The technician may be able to help you find a more comfortable position.
When the test is done, you'll need to wait while the technician checks the quality of the x-ray pictures. He or she needs to make sure that the pictures are good enough for the doctor to use.
You don't have to do anything special to prepare for a chest x ray. However, you may want to wear a shirt that's easy to take off. Before the test, you'll be asked to undress from the waist up and wear a gown.
You also may want to avoid wearing jewelry and other metal objects. You'll be asked to take off any jewelry, eyeglasses, and metal objects that might interfere with the x-ray picture. Let the x-ray technician (a person specially trained to do x-ray tests) know if you have any body piercings on your chest.
Let your doctor know if you're pregnant or may be pregnant. In general, women should avoid all x-ray tests during pregnancy. Sometimes, though, having an x ray is important to the health of the mother and fetus. If an x ray is needed, the technician will take extra steps to protect the fetus from radiation.
Chest x rays have few risks. The amount of radiation used in a chest x ray is very small. A lead apron may be used to protect certain parts of your body from the radiation.
The test gives out a radiation dose similar to the amount of radiation you're naturally exposed to over 10 days.
Chest x rays show the structures in and around the chest. The test is used to look for and track conditions of the heart, lungs, bones, and chest cavity. For example, chest x-ray pictures may show signs of pneumonia, heart failure, lung cancer, lung tissue scarring, or sarcoidosis.
Chest x rays do have limits. They only show conditions that change the size of tissues in the chest or how the tissues absorb radiation. Also, chest x rays create two-dimensional pictures. This means that denser structures, like bone or the heart, may hide some signs of disease. Very small areas of cancer and blood clots in the lungs usually don't show up on chest x rays.
For these reasons, your doctor may recommend other tests to confirm a diagnosis.
https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/chest-x-ray [accessed on Aug 25, 2021]
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003804.htm [accessed on Aug 25, 2021]
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Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."
Additional Materials (50)
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Chest X-ray of transfusion-related acute lung injury (TRALI syndrome) compared to chest X-ray of the same subject afterwards.
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Tuberculosis X-ray
An anteroposterior X-ray of a patient diagnosed with advanced bilateral pulmonary tuberculosis. This AP X-ray of the chest reveals the presence of bilateral pulmonary infiltrate (white triangles), and caving forma.
Image by CDC / Der Lange
Respiratory Syncytial Virus
This highly-magnified, 1981 transmission electron microscopic (TEM) image, reveals some of the morphologic traits exhibited by a human respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The virion is variable in shape, and size, with an average diameter between 120-300nm. RSV is the most common cause of bronchiolitis and pneumonia among infants and children, under 1-year of age.
Image by CDC/ E. L. Palmer
Q Fever Pneumonia X-ray
Combination of two x-rays (A) normal chest x-ray (B) x-ray documenting Q fever pneumonia.
Image by US Gov
Chest X Ray
A Lateral Chest X-Ray with the heart shadow outlined.
Image by US Army
Projectional radiography
Image relating focal spot size to geometric unsharpness in projectional radiography.
Image by Source images by Blausen Medical and LadyofHats (Mariana Ruiz Villarreal) Derivative by Mikael Haggstrom
Chest Radiograph
Chest X-Ray : Specialized test, like a computerized tomography (CT) scan or a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan, may be needed to confirm the presence of an aneurysm.
Image by TheVisualMD
X-ray of Healthy Lung
This image shows an x-ray of healthy lungs.
Image by TheVisualMD
Cancer screening
Cancer Imaging: X-Rays : Chest X-rays can be used to show the presence of tumors, as for lung cancer, but they may also indicate problems associated with cancer. An X-ray may produce images suggestive of fluid accumulation, masses, or enlarged lymph nodes.
Image by TheVisualMD
Lung Cancer
Chest X-ray (Cancer): This is an x-ray image of a chest. Both sides of the lungs are visible with a growth on the left side of the lung, which could possibly be lung cancer.
Image by National Cancer Institute
Chest X Ray
Mediastinal structures on a chest radiograph.
Image by Mikael Haggstrom, from source images by ZooFari, Stillwaterising and Gray's Anatomy creators
CT Chest Scan of Pleura effusion
CT scan of chest showing loculated pleural effusion in left side. Some thickening of pleura is also noted. From my personal collection. Permission obtained from patient.
Image by Drriad
Chest X-ray (Cancer)
This is an x-ray image of a chest. Both sides of the lungs are visible with a growth on the left side of the lung, which could possibly be lung cancer.
Image by National Cancer Institute / Unknown Photographer
This browser does not support the video element.
CT Scans (VIDEO)
This video shows how modern science of scanning can expose the health condition of the patient. The video starts with a patient undergoing CT scanning, an x-ray procedure that combines many x-ray images with the aid of a computer to generate cross-sectional views and, if needed, three-dimensional images of the internal organs and structures of the body. Visible are the heart, lungs, and arteries of a patient.
Video by TheVisualMD
Chest X-Ray
Air-filled trachea and lungs Diaphragmatic domes Mediastinal structures Vascular markings
Arrows indicate costophrenic angles
Image by US Army
Gallstones
Gallstones as seen on plain x-ray.
Image by James Heilman, MD
Hemoptysis x-ray
Hemoptysis can be discovered with the help of radiology.
Image by Aidan Jones from Oxford, U.K.
X-ray of Lung with Pulmonary Edema
Within the lungs, the main airways (bronchi) branch off into smaller passageways, the smallest of which are called bronchioles. At the end of the bronchioles are tiny air sacs (alveoli). Pulmonary edema is a condition caused when excess fluid collects in these air sacs, making it difficult to breathe. Fluid in the lungs can be caused by pneumonia, acute respiratory distress and other conditions, but in most cases, the cause of pulmonary edema is heart problems (when a damaged heart can't pump enough blood and fluid leaks into the lungs).
Image by TheVisualMD
What To Expect During and After Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator Surgery
A normal chest X-ray after placement of an ICD, showing the ICD generator in the upper left chest and the ICD lead in the right ventricle of the heart. Note the 2 opaque coils along the ICD lead.
Image by Gregory Marcus, MD, MAS, FACC
This browser does not support the video element.
Chest X-ray: NCI B-roll [video]
NCI B-roll of a patient receiving a Chest X-ray. This video is silent.
Video by National Cancer Institute (NCI)
X-Ray of Aneurysm within Chest frontal view
Most aneurysms are detected in the course of an exam, such as a physical exam or a chest X-ray, being performed for a different reason.
Image by TheVisualMD
Pleural Effusion: Tests
Pleural effusion Chest x-ray of a pleural effusion. The arrow A shows fluid layering in the right pleural cavity. The B arrow shows the normal width of the lung in the cavity. A pleural effusion: as seen on chest X-ray. The A arrow indicates fluid layering in the right chest. The B arrow indicates the width of the right lung. The volume of the lung is reduced because of the collection of fluid around the lung.Pleural effusion Chest x-ray of a pleural effusion. The arrow A shows fluid layering in the right pleural cavity. The B arrow shows the normal width of the lung in the cavity. A pleural effusion: as seen on chest X-ray. The A arrow indicates fluid layering in the right chest. The B arrow indicates the width of the right lung. The volume of the lung is reduced because of the collection of fluid around the lung.
Image by CDC InvictaHOG
Coccidioidomycosis
This anteroposterior (AP) chest x-ray revealed pulmonary changes indicative of pulmonary fibrosis in a case of coccidioidomycosis, caused by fungal organisms of the genus, Coccidioides. Because these changes also resemble those seen in other lung infections including tuberculosis, the findings uncovered with a chest x-ray needs to be coupled with serologic testing, as well as possible tissue biopsy. The degree of fibrotic changes, indicative of scarring found on x-ray, can be directly correlated to the severity of the fungal infection.
Image by CDC/ Dr. Lucille K. Georg
How Is Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) Diagnosed?
Chest X-Ray: Acute respiratory distress syndrome on plain Xray
Image by James Heilman, MD
How Are Asbestos-Related Lung Diseases Diagnosed?
Early Asbestosis in a Retired Pipe Fitter : Chest X-ray in asbestosis shows plaques above diaphragm
Image by Clinical Cases
Aspergillosis
This was a photomicrograph of a lung tissue specimen, harvested from a caged, sulfur-crested cockatoo, that depicted some of the histopathologic changes that had been caused by the fungal organism, Aspergillus fumigatus, in a case of avian pulmonary aspergillosis. Here, you are able see how the periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) stain, revealed A. fumigatus ultrastructural morphology including conidial heads and mycelium.
Image by CDC/ Dr. William Kaplan
Pleural Effusion - Defined
A large left sided pleural effusion as seen on an upright chest X-ray
Image by Drriad
Pleural Effusion: Tests
A large left sided pleural effusion as seen on an upright chest X-ray
Image by James Heilman MD
Breast implants
Chest X-ray showing breast implants
Image by James Heilman
Living With Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis
No cure is available for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) yet. Your symptoms may get worse over time. As your symptoms worsen, you may not be able to do many of the things that you did before you had IPF.
However, lifestyle changes and ongoing care can help you manage the disease.
If you're still smoking, the most important thing you can do is quit. Talk with your doctor about programs and products that can help you quit. Also, try to avoid secondhand smoke. Ask family members and friends not to smoke in front of you or in your home, car, or workplace.
Image by Drriad
Symptoms and Spread of SARS (Severe acute respiratory syndrome)
A chest x-ray showing increased opacity in both lungs, indicative of pneumonia, in a patient with SARS.
Image by CDC
Chilaiditi syndrome
Chest X-ray showing obvious Chilaiditi's sign, or presence of gas in the right colic angle between the liver and right hemidiaphragm (left side of the image).
Piper's Sign: In days gone by the lateral chest x-ray (demonstrating greater opacity in the aortic arch and descending aorta than the thoracic spine) gave an indication to the degree of calcified plaque burden a patient had. This has been known as Piper's sign and can often be seen in elderly persons particularly those with concomitant osteoporosis.
Image by U4077905
Aspect of a bulky thymoma (red circle) on the chest x-ray.
Aspect of a bulky thymoma (red circle) on the chest x-ray.
Image by Stockholm
Lambert–Eaton myasthenic syndrome-Chest X-ray showing a tumor in the left lung (right side of the image)
Lambert–Eaton myasthenic syndrome-Chest X-ray showing a tumor in the left lung (right side of the image)
Image by Lange123 at German Wikipedia
Chest X-ray in influenza and Haemophilus influenza
Chest X-ray of a 76 year old woman, who developed cough and labored breathing. First testing showed influenza B virus, and later a nasopharyngeal swab detected Haemophilus influenzae. The H influenzae presumably developed as an opportunistic infection secondary to the flu. This X-ray was taken 2 weeks after cultures and start of antibiotics, showing delayed pneumonic infiltrates that were only vaguely visible on initial (not shown) X-rays.
Image by Mikael Häggström
Chest X-ray in influenza and Haemophilus influenzae, lateral
Chest X-ray of a 76 year old woman, who developed cough and labored breathing. First testing showed influenza B virus, and later a nasopharyngeal swab detected Haemophilus influenzae. The H influenzae presumably developed as an opportunistic infection secondary to the flu. This X-ray was taken 2 weeks after cultures and start of antibiotics, showing delayed pneumonic infiltrates that were only vaguely visible on initial (not shown) X-rays.
Image by Mikael Häggström
Fungal Parasites and Pathogens
(a) Ringworm presents as a red ring on skin; (b) Trichophyton violaceum, shown in this bright field light micrograph, causes superficial mycoses on the scalp; (c) Histoplasma capsulatum is an ascomycete that infects airways and causes symptoms similar to influenza. (credit a: modification of work by Dr. Lucille K. Georg, CDC; credit b: modification of work by Dr. Lucille K. Georg, CDC; credit c: modification of work by M. Renz, CDC; scale-bar data from Matt Russell)
Image by CNX Openstax
This anteroposterior (AP) chest x-ray revealed radiologic evidence of pulmonary pneumocystosis in the form of bilateral pulmonary interstitial infiltrates. This infection was due to the presence of an opportunistic fungal infection by the fungal organism Pneumocystis jirovecii, formerly known as Pneumocystis carinii. (This image was provided by Jonathan W.M. Gold. M.D., Assoc. Dir. Special Microbiology Lab, Assist. Attending Physician, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center and Assist. Prof. of Medicine, Cornell Univ. Med. College, New York.)
Pneumocystis jirovecii is the causative agent of Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP), one of the most frequent and severe opportunistic infections in immunocompromised patients. Pneumocystis organisms represent a large group of species of atypical fungi with universal distribution and pulmonary tropism, and each species has a strong specificity for a given mammalian host species.
Image by CDC/ Jonathan W.M. Gold, MD
Chest X-ray PA inverted and enhanced
Chest X-ray PA inverted and enhanced
Image by Stillwaterising
Chest X-Ray of Canadian dollar coin in esophagus of child
PA view Chest X-Ray of Canadian dollar coin in esophagus of child. Released per permission of mother.
Image by Samir (talk)
Chest X Ray
Structures shown: Air-filled trachea and lungs Diaphragmatic domes Mediastinal structures Vascular markings. Arrows indicate costophrenic angles
Image by US Army
Thoracic diaphragm
X-ray of chest, showing top of diaphragm.
Image by OpenStax College
Chest X Ray
Roentgenogram or Medical X-ray image. May not be to scale.
Aspect of a bulky thymoma (red circle) on the chest x-ray.
Stockholm
Lambert–Eaton myasthenic syndrome-Chest X-ray showing a tumor in the left lung (right side of the image)
Lange123 at German Wikipedia
Chest X-ray in influenza and Haemophilus influenza
Mikael Häggström
Chest X-ray in influenza and Haemophilus influenzae, lateral
Mikael Häggström
Fungal Parasites and Pathogens
CNX Openstax
This anteroposterior (AP) chest x-ray revealed radiologic evidence of pulmonary pneumocystosis in the form of bilateral pulmonary interstitial infiltrates. This infection was due to the presence of an opportunistic fungal infection by the fungal organism Pneumocystis jirovecii, formerly known as Pneumocystis carinii. (This image was provided by Jonathan W.M. Gold. M.D., Assoc. Dir. Special Microbiology Lab, Assist. Attending Physician, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center and Assist. Prof. of Medicine, Cornell Univ. Med. College, New York.)
CDC/ Jonathan W.M. Gold, MD
Chest X-ray PA inverted and enhanced
Stillwaterising
Chest X-Ray of Canadian dollar coin in esophagus of child
Patrick J. Lynch, medical illustrator; C. Carl Jaffe, MD, cardiologist.
7:02
Reading a chest X-ray
Osmosis/YouTube
Chest X-ray of transfusion-related acute lung injury (TRALI syndrome) compared to chest X-ray of the same subject afterwards.
Altaf Gauhar Haji, Shekhar Sharma, DK Vijaykumar and Jerry Paul
Chest MRI Test
Chest MRI Test
Also called: Chest MRI Scan, Chest Nuclear Magnetic Resonance, Chest NMR, MRI of the thorax, Thoracic MRI
A chest MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is an imaging test that uses radio waves, magnets, and a computer to create detailed pictures of the structures in your chest, including your chest wall, heart, and blood vessels.
Chest MRI Test
Also called: Chest MRI Scan, Chest Nuclear Magnetic Resonance, Chest NMR, MRI of the thorax, Thoracic MRI
A chest MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is an imaging test that uses radio waves, magnets, and a computer to create detailed pictures of the structures in your chest, including your chest wall, heart, and blood vessels.
Chest MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is a safe, noninvasive test. "Noninvasive" means that no surgery is done and no instruments are inserted into your body. This test creates detailed pictures of the structures in your chest, such as your chest wall, heart, and blood vessels.
Chest MRI uses radio waves, magnets, and a computer to create these pictures. The test is used to:
Look for tumors in the chest
Look at blood vessels, lymph (limf) nodes, and other structures in the chest
Help explain the results of other tests, such as a chest x ray or chest computed tomography (to-MOG-rah-fee) scan, also called a chest CT scan.
As part of some chest MRIs, a substance called contrast dye is injected into a vein in your arm. This dye allows the MRI to take more detailed pictures of the structures in your chest.
Chest MRI can provide detailed information to help your doctor diagnose lung problems such as a tumor or pleural disorder, blood vessel problems, or abnormal lymph nodes. Chest MRI can help explain the results of other imaging tests such as chest x rays and chest CT scans.
Your doctor may recommend chest MRI if he or she thinks you have a chest condition, such as:
A tumor
Problems in the blood vessels, such as an aneurysm (AN-u-rism) or blood clot
Abnormal lymph nodes
Another chest condition, such as a pleural disorder
Chest MRI also may be used to help explain the results of other tests, such as chest x ray and chest CT scan.
Researchers are exploring ways to use chest MRI to study blood flow in the lungs. The test may help detect early signs of pulmonary hypertension (PH). PH is increased pressure in the pulmonary arteries. These arteries carry blood from your heart to your lungs to pick up oxygen.
Chest MRI may be done in a medical imaging facility or hospital. Before your test, a technician may inject a contrast dye into a vein in your arm to highlight your heart and blood vessels. You may feel some discomfort from the needle or have a cool feeling as the contrast dye is injected. The MRI machine is a large, tunnel-like machine that has a table. You will lie still on the table, and the table will slide into the machine. You will hear loud humming, tapping, and buzzing sounds when you are inside the machine as pictures of your chest are being taken. You will be able to hear from and talk to the technician performing the test while you are inside the machine. The technician may ask you to hold your breath for a few seconds during the test.
Your doctor or an MRI technician will ask you some questions before the test, such as:
Are you pregnant or do you think you could be? Generally, you shouldn't have a chest MRI if you're pregnant, especially during the first trimester. Sometimes, though, an MRI is needed to help diagnose a serious condition that may harm you or your baby. If you're pregnant, discuss the risks and benefits of an MRI with your doctor.
Have you had any surgery? If so, what kind?
Do you use transdermal patches (patches that stick to the skin) to take any of your medicines? Some medicine patches contain aluminum and other metals. These metals can cause skin burns during an MRI. Examples of transdermal patches are nicotine and fentanyl (medicine used for pain) patches.
Do you have any metal objects in your body, like metal screws or pins in a bone?
Do you have any medical devices in your body, such as a pacemaker, an implantable cardioverter defibrillator, cochlear (inner-ear) implants, or brain aneurysm clips? The strong magnets in the MRI machine can damage these devices.
Your answers will help your doctor decide whether you should have chest MRI.
Chest MRI has few risks. Unlike a CT scan or standard x ray, MRI doesn't use radiation or pose any risk of cancer. Rarely, the contrast dye used for some chest MRIs may cause an allergic reaction or worsen kidney function in people who have kidney disease.
The pictures from chest MRI may show a tumor, problems in the blood vessels (such as an aneurysm or blood clot), abnormal lymph nodes, or another chest condition (such as a pleural disorder).
https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/chest-mri [accessed on Feb 25, 2022]
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003794.htm [accessed on Feb 25, 2022]
Additional Materials (23)
MRI and CT Scan the differences
Video by Vijayan Ragavan/YouTube
Having a Cardiac MRI scan
Video by Birmingham Women's and Children's NHS Trust/YouTube
Chest MRI – Valley Children’s Hospital
Video by ValleyChildrens/YouTube
What To Expect During Cardiac MRI
Aberrant subclavian artery in MRI / MRA. Maximum intension projection.
Image by National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute / NIH
MRI Scans
Philips MRI in Sahlgrenska Universitetsjukhuset, Gothenburg, Sweden.
Image by Jan Ainali
Human Heart
Composited image profile of a heart as seen through various rendering techniques. With volume rendering software, slices of Magnetic Resonance Imagery (MRI), and Computer Tomography (CT) scans can be compiled to produce a three-dimensional (3D) model of an organ such as a heart. Models can be viewed in various ways. As individual slices, as is seen along the left or as enhanced color, gray scale volume and 3D transparency, as is seen along the right.
Image by TheVisualMD
Magnetic Resonance Angiography
Figure A shows the heart's position in the body and the location and angle of the MRI pictures shown in figure C. Figure B is an MRI angiogram, which is sometimes used instead of a standard angiogram. Figure C shows MRI pictures of a normal left ventricle (left image), a left ventricle damaged from a heart attack (middle image), and a left ventricle that isn't getting enough blood from the coronary arteries (right image).
Image by National Heart Lung and Blood Institute (NIH)
MRI Scans
Woman lying face down on breast MRI table, right breast visible, for MRI exam. Breast MRI tables have special padded recesses that the breasts hang into for imaging. MRIs don't expose the patient to radiation, as they use magnetic energy and radiowaves to produce hundreds of images of the breast from multiple angles. Breast MRIs use a contrast agent called gadolinium, injected through an intravenous line, that causes tumors to "light up" in the MRI image.
Image by ser:KasugaHuang
Cardiac Mri
Figure A shows the heart's position in the body and the location and angle of the MRI pictures shown in figure C. Figure B is an MRI angiogram, which is sometimes used instead of a standard angiogram. Figure C shows MRI pictures of a normal left ventricle (left image), a left ventricle damaged from a heart attack (middle image), and a left ventricle that isn't getting enough blood from the coronary arteries (right image).
Image by National Heart Lung and Blood Institute (NIH)
Enlarged right ventricle with poor function in a patient with repaired tetralogy of Fallot by CMR
Enlarged right ventricle with poor function in a patient with repaired tetralogy of Fallot by CMR
Image by Jccmoon (talk)
Cardiac MRI flow visualization
Cardiac MRI flow visualization
Image by Vasanawala
Cardiac MRI streamlines
Cardiac MRI streamlines visualization
Image by Vasanawala
Aberrant subclavian artery in MRI / MRA. Maximum intension projection.
Aberrant subclavian artery in MRI / MRA. Maximum intension projection.
Image by Hellerhoff
Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging perfusion
Animated sagittal MRI slice of my beating heart
Image by Bionerd
Chest MRI
Video by MRI Arbil/YouTube
Diagnostic Imaging
MRI of the ThoraxSpecialized test,. like a computerized tomography (CT) scan or a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan, may be needed to confirm the presence of an aneurysm.
Image by TheVisualMD
Imaging of the Heart With Contrast
Imaging of the Heart With Contrast
Image by TheVisualMD
Lumpectomy
Colorized MR of Breasts After Breast Conserving Surgery or Lumpectomy : Colorized breast MR of breasts, axial slice (horizontal view, as though seen from above). The breast on the right side of the image has had breast-conserving surgery, also called lumpectomy. This type of surgery removes the tumor, some breast tissue, and some lymph nodes, but preserves the chest muscles. The aim of the surgery is to take only as much tissue as is necessary to keep the chance of recurrence low, but to keep the breast looking as normal as possible.
Image by TheVisualMD
Aortic dissection
Aortic Dissection : CT of aortic dissection 1 descending aorta with dissection 2 left subclavian artery 3 ascending aorta
Image by Dr. Lars Grenacher (www.grenacher.de), uploaded by J. Heuser
Symptoms, Tests, and Diagnosis
Image by TheVisualMD
Breast MRI for Cancer Staging
Breast MRI for Cancer Staging
Image by TheVisualMD
Breast MRI (VIDEO)
Dr. Nora Jaskowiak of The University of Chicago Medical Center explains why Magnetic Resonance Imaging, or MRI, is a critical tool in her role as breast surgeon.
Image by TheVisualMD
Looped MRI video of a healthy 13 year old female's heart beating.
Looped MRI video of a healthy 13 year old female's heart beating.
Image by Alith3204
5:35
MRI and CT Scan the differences
Vijayan Ragavan/YouTube
3:55
Having a Cardiac MRI scan
Birmingham Women's and Children's NHS Trust/YouTube
1:58
Chest MRI – Valley Children’s Hospital
ValleyChildrens/YouTube
What To Expect During Cardiac MRI
National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute / NIH
MRI Scans
Jan Ainali
Human Heart
TheVisualMD
Magnetic Resonance Angiography
National Heart Lung and Blood Institute (NIH)
MRI Scans
ser:KasugaHuang
Cardiac Mri
National Heart Lung and Blood Institute (NIH)
Enlarged right ventricle with poor function in a patient with repaired tetralogy of Fallot by CMR
Jccmoon (talk)
Cardiac MRI flow visualization
Vasanawala
Cardiac MRI streamlines
Vasanawala
Aberrant subclavian artery in MRI / MRA. Maximum intension projection.
Hellerhoff
Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging perfusion
Bionerd
13:24
Chest MRI
MRI Arbil/YouTube
Diagnostic Imaging
TheVisualMD
Imaging of the Heart With Contrast
TheVisualMD
Lumpectomy
TheVisualMD
Aortic dissection
Dr. Lars Grenacher (www.grenacher.de), uploaded by J. Heuser
Symptoms, Tests, and Diagnosis
TheVisualMD
Breast MRI for Cancer Staging
TheVisualMD
Breast MRI (VIDEO)
TheVisualMD
Looped MRI video of a healthy 13 year old female's heart beating.
A chest computed tomography (CT) scan is an imaging test that takes detailed pictures of the lungs and the inside of the chest. Computers combine the pictures to create a 3-D model showing the size, shape, and position of the lungs and structures in the chest.
A chest computed tomography (CT) scan is an imaging test that takes detailed pictures of the lungs and the inside of the chest. Computers combine the pictures to create a 3-D model showing the size, shape, and position of the lungs and structures in the chest.
A chest CT scan is a more detailed type of chest X-ray. This painless imaging test takes many detailed pictures, called slices, of your lungs and the inside of your chest. Computers can combine these pictures to create three-dimensional (3D) models to help show the size, shape, and position of your lungs and structures in your chest.
This imaging test is often done to follow up on abnormal findings from earlier chest x rays. A chest CT scan also can help determine the cause of lung symptoms such as shortness of breath or chest pain, or check to see if you have certain lung problems such as a tumor, excess fluid around the lungs that is known as pleural effusion, pulmonary embolism, emphysema, tuberculosis, and pneumonia.
A chest CT scan provides detailed pictures of the size, shape, and position of your lungs and other structures in your chest. Doctors use this test to:
Follow up on abnormal results from standard chest x rays.
Find the cause of lung symptoms, such as shortness of breath or chest pain.
Find out whether you have a lung problem, such as a tumor, excess fluid around the lungs, or a pulmonary embolism (a blood clot in the lungs). The test also is used to check for other conditions, such as tuberculosis, emphysema, and pneumonia.
Your doctor may recommend a chest CT scan if you have symptoms of lung problems, such as chest pain or trouble breathing. The scan can help find the cause of the symptoms.
A chest CT scan looks for problems such as tumors, excess fluid around the lungs, and pulmonary embolism (a blood clot in the lungs). The scan also checks for other conditions, such as tuberculosis, emphysema, and pneumonia.
Your doctor may recommend a chest CT scan if a standard chest x ray doesn't help diagnose the problem. The chest CT scan can:
Provide more detailed pictures of your lungs and other chest structures than a standard chest x ray
Find the exact location of a tumor or other problem
Show something that isn't visible on a chest x ray
Your chest CT scan may be done in a medical imaging facility or hospital. The CT scanner is a large, tunnel-like machine that has a table. You will lie still on the table and the table will slide into the scanner. Talk to your doctor if you are uncomfortable in tight or closed spaces to see if you need medicine to relax you during the test. You will hear soft buzzing or clicking sounds when you are inside the scanner and the scanner is taking pictures. You will be able to hear from and talk to the technician performing the test while you are inside the scanner. For some diagnoses, a contrast dye, often iodine-based, may be injected into a vein in your arm before the imaging test. This contrast dye highlights areas inside your chest and creates clearer pictures. You may feel some discomfort from the needle or, after the contrast dye is injected, you may feel warm briefly or have a temporary metallic taste in your mouth.
Wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing for the test. Sometimes the CT scan technician (a person specially trained to do CT scans) may ask you to wear a hospital gown. You also may want to avoid wearing jewelry and other metal objects. You'll be asked to take off any jewelry, eyeglasses, and metal objects that might interfere with the test. You may be asked to remove hearing aids and dentures as well. Let the technician know if you have any body piercing on your chest.
Tell your doctor whether you're pregnant or may be pregnant. If possible, you should avoid unnecessary radiation exposure during pregnancy. This is because of the concern that radiation may harm the fetus.
Chest CT scans have some risks. In rare instances, some people have an allergic reaction to the contrast dye. There is a slight risk of cancer, particularly in growing children, because the test uses radiation. Although the amount of radiation from one test is usually less than the amount of radiation you are naturally exposed to over three years, patients should not receive more CT scans than the number that clinical guidelines recommend. Another risk is that chest CT scans may detect an incidental finding, which is something that doesn’t cause symptoms but now may require more tests after being found.
Talk to your doctor and the technicians performing the test about whether you are or could be pregnant. If the test is not urgent, they may have you wait to do the test until after your pregnancy. If it is urgent, the technicians will take extra steps to protect your baby during this test. Let your doctor know if you are breastfeeding because contrast dye can pass into your breast milk. If you must have contrast dye injected, you may want to pump and save enough breast milk for one to two days after your test or you may bottle-feed your baby for that time.
https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/chest-ct-scan [accessed on Aug 25, 2021]
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003788.htm [accessed on Aug 25, 2021]
Additional Materials (50)
Pleural empyema
CT chest showing large right sided hydro-pneumothorax from pleural empyema. Arrows A: air, B: fluid
Image by Amit Banga, GC Khilnani, SK Sharma1, AB Dey, Naveet Wig and Namrata Banga
How Are Pleurisy and Other Pleural Disorders Diagnosed?
CT with the identification of underlying lung lesion: an apical bulla.
Image by Robertolyra
How Are Pleurisy and Other Pleural Disorders Treated?
Right-sided pneumothorax (right side of image) on CT scan of the chest with chest tube in place.
Image by en:User:Clinical Cases
Chest Radiograph
Chest X-Ray : Specialized test, like a computerized tomography (CT) scan or a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan, may be needed to confirm the presence of an aneurysm.
Image by TheVisualMD
What To Expect During a Coronary Calcium Scan
3D reconstruction of the thin multislice CT, covering human heart and lungs
Image by Semnic
Incision for Open-Chest Bypass Surgery
Open-chest bypass surgery requires the surgeon to make an incision down the center of the chest, along the breastbone. The rib cage is spread open to expose the heart.
Image by TheVisualMD
A child's guide to hospital: CT Chest
Video by The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne/YouTube
What is it like to have a CT scan? | Cancer Research UK
Video by Cancer Research UK/YouTube
Coronary CT angiography of coronary arteries
Researchers have found that anti-inflammatory biologic therapies used to treat moderate to severe psoriasis can significantly reduce coronary inflammation in patients with the chronic skin condition. Scientists said the findings are particularly notable because of the use of a novel imaging biomarker, the perivascular fat attenuation index (FAI), that was able to measure the effect of the therapy in reducing the inflammation.
The study published online in JAMA Cardiology, has implications not just for people with psoriasis, but for those with other chronic inflammatory diseases, such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. These conditions are known to increase the risk for heart attacks and strokes. The study was funded by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), part of the National Institutes of Health.
In this image: Coronary CT angiography image of the coronary arteries depicting the perivascular fat attenuation index before and after biologic therapy at one-year follow-up for patients with excellent response to biologic therapy.
Image by Oxford Academic Cardiovascular CT Core Lab and Lab of Inflammation and Cardiometabolic Diseases at NHLBI
Coronary CT
Coronary CT
Image by Bác sĩ Nguyễn Minh Đức
CT of the blood vessels and heart
CT of the blood vessels and heart
Image by Bác sĩ Nguyễn Minh Đức
Chest CT showing pulmonary sequestration
chest CT: diagnosis is pulmonary sequestration
Image by RadsWiki
Scimitar syndrome chest CT
Scimitar syndrome chest CT
Image by Matthew Cham, MD
/Wikimedia
Having a Cardiac CT Scan in Hospital
Video by Oxford AHSN/YouTube
What to Expect from a CT Exam with Contrast
Video by RAYUS Radiology™/YouTube
Protocoling chest CTs
Video by Thoracic Radiology/YouTube
Low Dose CT Scans to Look for Lung Cancer
Video by Lee Health/YouTube
Lung Cancer Screening (LCS)
Video by Cleveland Clinic/YouTube
CT Scan of the Chest Explained Clearly - High Resolution CT Scan (HRCT)
Video by MedCram - Medical Lectures Explained CLEARLY/YouTube
What to Expect: CT Scan | Cedars-Sinai
Video by Cedars-Sinai/YouTube
How I Read a Chest CT
Video by Thoracic Radiology/YouTube
Introduction to Computed Tomographic imaging of the Chest
Video by Yale Radiology and Biomedical Imaging/YouTube
Lung Cancer Screening: The Life-saving CT Scan
Video by RAYUS Radiology™/YouTube
How to prepare for a CT scan
Video by Sunnybrook Hospital/YouTube
Using CT Scans to Screen for Lung Cancer
Video by UConn Health/YouTube
Cardiac CT scan
Video by UHP_NHS/YouTube
Real look at Chest, Abdomen and Pelvis CT Scan from Start to Finish.
Video by Dumb Old Dad/YouTube
What is it like to get a CT Scan with Contrast?
Video by STRIDE Project/YouTube
Thorax with Healthy Heart
3D visualization based on scanned human data of a healthy heart in the thorax.
Image by TheVisualMD
Heart and Lungs
The heart and lungs are the primary contents of the thorax. They are interconnected with very large blood vessels. The heart sends oxygen-poor blood through the pulmonary arteries to the lungs, which oxygenate it and return it to the heart through the pulmonary veins. The pulmonary arteries arise from one large pulmonary trunk, and then begin branching exponentially once they enter the lungs in order to reach the functional respiratory units and pick up oxygen. The smallest pulmonary veins then take the oxygenated blood backwards through the lungs and empty into the back of the heart through four larger pulmonary veins. The oxygen-rich blood is then pumped by the heart out into the body through the aorta. Deoxygenated blood from body tissues returns to the heart through the superior and inferior vena cava and the cardiac cycle repeats continuously. The pulmonary veins and arteries are the only case where arteries carry deoxygenated blood and veins carry blood that has been oxygenated.
Image by TheVisualMD
Thorax with Muscle Involved in Respiration
3D visualization of an anterior view of the muscles involved in respiration. The primary job of the thorax is to promote movements necessary for breathing. Three muscles of the thorax assist in this function; the external intercostals, internal intercostals and diaphragm. The intercostals do the job of lifting the ribs up and pulling them outward, which in turn enlarges the lungs. As the lungs expand, the pressure inside them is reduced, and they suck in air. During extreme inhalation, the neck muscles also contract. During inhalation, the diaphragm contracts and pushes downward; during exhalation, it relaxes and is pushed up into a dome shape by the lower digestive organs, compressing the lungs. As pressure rises in the chest cavity, exhale occurs, pressure is equalized and the cycle restarts.
Image by TheVisualMD
Thorax with Muscle Involved in Respiration
3D visualization of an inferior view of the muscles involved in respiration. The primary job of the thorax is to promote movements necessary for breathing. Three muscles of the thorax assist in this function; the external intercostals, internal intercostals and diaphragm. The intercostals do the job of lifting the ribs up and pulling them outward, which in turn enlarges the lungs. As the lungs expand, the pressure inside them is reduced, and they suck in air. During extreme inhalation, the neck muscles also contract. During inhalation, the diaphragm contracts and pushes downward; during exhalation, it relaxes and is pushed up into a dome shape by the lower digestive organs, compressing the lungs. As pressure rises in the chest cavity, exhalation occurs, pressure is equalized and the cycle restarts.
Image by TheVisualMD
Thorax with visible Lung and Heart
3D visualization of a posterior view of the lungs and heart reconstructed from scanned human data. De-oxygenated red blood cells are sent by the right side of the heart through the pulmonary artery into the vessels of the lungs to be refilled with oxygen for their next circuit through the body. The blood is carried through the lung tissues, where it exchanges its carbon dioxide for oxygen in the alveoli. It is then returned through the pulmonary veins to the left side of the heart and sent out to the rest of the body. The pulmonary artery carries away the deoxygenated blood, which returns fully oxygenated through the pulmonary vein.
Image by TheVisualMD
Female Thorax Showing Breast
Visualization based on scanned human data of an anterior view of female breast.
Image by TheVisualMD
Male Thorax with Visible Heart
Visualization of male heart. The nerve supply of the heart is emphasized specifically the cardiac plexus. The plexus which rest around the base of the heart, mainly in the epicardium, is formed by cardiac branches from the vagus nerves and the sympathetic trunks and ganglia.
Image by TheVisualMD
Thorax with Heart and Lung
3D visualization of an anterior view of the lungs and heart reconstructed from scanned human data. The cone-shaped lungs occupy most of the thoracic cavity. Each lung is suspended in its own pleural cavity and connected to the mediastinum (which houses the heart) by its root which is made up of vascular and bronchial attachments. The anterior, lateral and posterior surfaces of the lung are in close contact with the ribs and form a continuously curving surface called the costal surface. De-oxygenated red blood cells are sent by the right side of the heart through the pulmonary artery into the vessels of the lungs to be refilled with oxygen for their next circuit through the body. The blood is carried through the lung tissues, where it exchanges its carbon dioxide for oxygen in the alveoli. It is then returned through the pulmonary veins to the left side of the heart and sent out to the rest of the body. The pulmonary artery carries away the deoxygenated blood, which returns fully oxygenated through the pulmonary vein.
Image by TheVisualMD
Cross Section of Human Thorax. Liver in bottom Left
Cross Section of Human Thorax. Liver in bottom Left
Image by TheVisualMD
Male Thorax Showing Trachea and Lung
3D visualization of an anterior view of the lungs and heart reconstructed from scanned human data. De-oxygenated red blood cells are sent by the right side of the heart through the pulmonary artery into the vessels of the lungs to be refilled with oxygen for their next circuit through the body. The blood is carried through the lung tissues, where it exchanges its carbon dioxide for oxygen in the alveoli. It is then returned through the pulmonary veins to the left side of the heart and sent out to the rest of the body. The pulmonary artery carries away the deoxygenated blood, which returns fully oxygenated through the pulmonary vein.
Image by TheVisualMD
Thoracic Aneurysm in the Aorta
Aneurysms that occur in the part of the aorta that is higher in the chest are called thoracic aortic aneurysms. Aortic aneurysms often grow slowly and usually without any symptoms therefore making them difficult to detect
Image by TheVisualMD
Ventilation/perfusion scan
subFusion processing applied to a SPECT lung ventilation-perfusion scan.
Image by KieranMaher at English Wikibooks
Bronchi and Bronchiole of Lung
3D visualization of an inferior view of a transverse section of the thorax, highlighting the lungs, reconstructed from scanned human data. The trachea, cardiac impression, and transverse sections of the thoracic aorta and esophagus are clearly illustrated. The bronchial tree is also visible. When air is inhaled into the lungs, it flows through large tubes called bronchi, branches into smaller tubes known as bronchioles, and ends up in the thousands of small pouches that are the alveoli. This is where the oxygen is transferred from the air into the bloodstream. Each alveolar sac, or air sac, is surrounded by a bed of capillaries, and the walls between the lung and the capillary are extremely thin. The walls are so delicate, in fact, that the inhaled oxygen can seep from the air sacs to bind to the hemoglobin in the blood, while the carbon dioxide and other waste gasses leave the blood and diffuse into the lungs where they can be exhaled.
Image by TheVisualMD
Chest Pain
Angina
Image by TheVisualMD
Chest Pain
Chest Pain
Image by TheVisualMD
Chest Pain or Tightness
Image by TheVisualMD
CT scanner
A view of the CT scanner in the new Fort Belvoir Community Hospital. The hospital, still under construction, is a 2005 Base Realignment and Closure project, and is scheduled to open later this year.
Image by Official Navy Page from United States of America MC2 Todd Frantom/U.S. Marine Corps
Illustration of 3 X-ray images and a patient entering a CT scanner
Radiation can be dangerous, but it can also save lives. When you’re faced with a medical test that uses radiation, don’t let fear get in your way. Learn about the risks and benefits, and know what questions to ask.
Image by NIH News in Health
Drawing of a computerized tomography scanner with a health care professional looking on a computer screen as a patient lies inside the scanner
CT scan.
Image by NIDDK Image Library
Advanced CT Scanning
An NIH Clinical Center study participant receives a scan in the Photon-Counting CT scanner.
Image by NIH Clinical Center
Sensitive content
This media may include sensitive content
CAT Scan
A computer-assisted tomographic (CAT) scanner, with a Caucasian female technician working at a screen and behind a glass wall. A patient is on a table and being tested by the CAT scanner. The lighting is very subdued. This new technology revolutionized detection of brain tumors.
Image by National Cancer Institute / Linda Bartlett (Photographer)
Virtual Colonoscopy Slice of CT Data
Virtual colonoscopy is a new imaging technology that uses computed tomography (CT) images to look for polyps and cancer in the colon. A computed tomography scanner takes cross-sectional images of the patient's colon, after the colon has been inflated with gas. A three-dimensional model is created from the CT slices and evaluated by a radiologist for abnormalities.
Image by TheVisualMD
Pleural empyema
Amit Banga, GC Khilnani, SK Sharma1, AB Dey, Naveet Wig and Namrata Banga
How Are Pleurisy and Other Pleural Disorders Diagnosed?
Robertolyra
How Are Pleurisy and Other Pleural Disorders Treated?
en:User:Clinical Cases
Chest Radiograph
TheVisualMD
What To Expect During a Coronary Calcium Scan
Semnic
Incision for Open-Chest Bypass Surgery
TheVisualMD
4:22
A child's guide to hospital: CT Chest
The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne/YouTube
1:50
What is it like to have a CT scan? | Cancer Research UK
Cancer Research UK/YouTube
Coronary CT angiography of coronary arteries
Oxford Academic Cardiovascular CT Core Lab and Lab of Inflammation and Cardiometabolic Diseases at NHLBI
Coronary CT
Bác sĩ Nguyễn Minh Đức
CT of the blood vessels and heart
Bác sĩ Nguyễn Minh Đức
Chest CT showing pulmonary sequestration
RadsWiki
Scimitar syndrome chest CT
Matthew Cham, MD
/Wikimedia
4:59
Having a Cardiac CT Scan in Hospital
Oxford AHSN/YouTube
2:33
What to Expect from a CT Exam with Contrast
RAYUS Radiology™/YouTube
7:48
Protocoling chest CTs
Thoracic Radiology/YouTube
1:44
Low Dose CT Scans to Look for Lung Cancer
Lee Health/YouTube
8:27
Lung Cancer Screening (LCS)
Cleveland Clinic/YouTube
5:10
CT Scan of the Chest Explained Clearly - High Resolution CT Scan (HRCT)
MedCram - Medical Lectures Explained CLEARLY/YouTube
3:29
What to Expect: CT Scan | Cedars-Sinai
Cedars-Sinai/YouTube
17:21
How I Read a Chest CT
Thoracic Radiology/YouTube
8:46
Introduction to Computed Tomographic imaging of the Chest
Yale Radiology and Biomedical Imaging/YouTube
3:09
Lung Cancer Screening: The Life-saving CT Scan
RAYUS Radiology™/YouTube
2:19
How to prepare for a CT scan
Sunnybrook Hospital/YouTube
2:07
Using CT Scans to Screen for Lung Cancer
UConn Health/YouTube
5:04
Cardiac CT scan
UHP_NHS/YouTube
6:28
Real look at Chest, Abdomen and Pelvis CT Scan from Start to Finish.
Dumb Old Dad/YouTube
2:52
What is it like to get a CT Scan with Contrast?
STRIDE Project/YouTube
Thorax with Healthy Heart
TheVisualMD
Heart and Lungs
TheVisualMD
Thorax with Muscle Involved in Respiration
TheVisualMD
Thorax with Muscle Involved in Respiration
TheVisualMD
Thorax with visible Lung and Heart
TheVisualMD
Female Thorax Showing Breast
TheVisualMD
Male Thorax with Visible Heart
TheVisualMD
Thorax with Heart and Lung
TheVisualMD
Cross Section of Human Thorax. Liver in bottom Left
TheVisualMD
Male Thorax Showing Trachea and Lung
TheVisualMD
Thoracic Aneurysm in the Aorta
TheVisualMD
Ventilation/perfusion scan
KieranMaher at English Wikibooks
Bronchi and Bronchiole of Lung
TheVisualMD
Chest Pain
TheVisualMD
Chest Pain
TheVisualMD
Chest Pain or Tightness
TheVisualMD
CT scanner
Official Navy Page from United States of America MC2 Todd Frantom/U.S. Marine Corps
Illustration of 3 X-ray images and a patient entering a CT scanner
NIH News in Health
Drawing of a computerized tomography scanner with a health care professional looking on a computer screen as a patient lies inside the scanner
NIDDK Image Library
Advanced CT Scanning
NIH Clinical Center
Sensitive content
This media may include sensitive content
CAT Scan
National Cancer Institute / Linda Bartlett (Photographer)
Virtual Colonoscopy Slice of CT Data
TheVisualMD
Echocardiography
Echocardiography
Also called: Echo, Echocardiogram, Cardiac Ultrasound, Ultrasound of the Heart
An echocardiography, or echo, is a painless test that uses sound waves to create moving pictures of your heart. The pictures show the size and shape of your heart. They also show how well your heart's chambers and valves are working. Doctors use an echo to diagnose many different heart problems, and to check how severe they are.
Echocardiography
Also called: Echo, Echocardiogram, Cardiac Ultrasound, Ultrasound of the Heart
An echocardiography, or echo, is a painless test that uses sound waves to create moving pictures of your heart. The pictures show the size and shape of your heart. They also show how well your heart's chambers and valves are working. Doctors use an echo to diagnose many different heart problems, and to check how severe they are.
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Use the slider below to see how your results affect your
health.
1
Your result is Normal.
Echocardiography (echo) shows the size, structure, and movement of various parts of your heart. These parts include the heart valves, the septum (the wall separating the right and left heart chambers), and the walls of the heart chambers.
Related conditions
Echocardiography, or echo, is a painless test that uses sound waves to create moving pictures of your heart. The pictures show the size and shape of your heart and how well your heart is pumping blood. A type of echo called Doppler ultrasound shows how well blood flows through your heart's chambers and valves.
There are several types of echocardiography:
Transthoracic echocardiography is the most common type of echo. It involves placing a device called a transducer on your chest after a gel is applied to your skin. The device sends special sound waves, called ultrasound, through your chest wall to your heart. As the ultrasound waves bounce off the structures of your heart, a computer in the echo machine converts them into pictures on a screen.
Stress echocardiography is done as part of a stress test. During a stress test, you exercise or take medicine to make your heart work hard and beat fast. A technician will use echo to create pictures of your heart before you exercise and as soon as you finish.
Transesophageal echocardiography gives your doctor a more detailed view of your heart. During this test, the transducer is attached to the end of a flexible tube. The tube is guided down your throat and into your esophagus (the passage leading from your mouth to your stomach). Your doctor will inject medicine into a vein to help you relax during the test.
Fetal echocardiography is used to look at an unborn baby's heart to check for heart problems. When recommended, the test is commonly done at about 18 to 22 weeks of pregnancy. For this test, the transducer is moved over the pregnant person's belly.
Three-dimensional (3D) echocardiography creates 3D images of your heart. This may be done as part of a transthoracic or transesophageal echo.
Echoes from the sound waves form a picture of the size, shape, and position of the heart on a computer screen (echocardiogram). The pictures can also show the parts of the inside of the heart, such as the valves, and the motion of the heart while it is beating.
Echo can detect blood clots inside your heart, fluid buildup in the pericardium (the sac around the heart), tumors, and problems with the aorta. The aorta is the main artery that carries oxygen-rich blood from your heart to your body. Echo also can help your doctor find the cause of abnormal heart sounds, such as heart murmurs, due to damaged heart valves. Your doctor also might use echo to see how well your heart responds to certain treatments.
You may have the echocardiography in your doctor’s office or at a hospital. Echocardiography usually takes less than an hour to do. For some types of echo, your doctor will need to inject saline or a special dye into one of your veins. This makes your heart show up more clearly on the echo pictures.
For most types of echo, a technician applies gel to your chest. The gel helps sound waves reach your heart. The technician moves a transducer (wand-like device) around on your chest. The transducer connects to a computer. It transmits ultrasound waves into your chest, and the waves bounce (echo) back. The computer converts the echoes into pictures of your heart.
For a transesophageal echo, you’ll be given oxygen through a tube in your nose. The back of your mouth will be numbed with gel or spray. Your doctor will gently place the tube with the transducer in your throat and guide it down until it is in place behind your heart. The pictures of your heart are then recorded as your doctor moves the transducer around in your esophagus and stomach. You shouldn’t feel any discomfort as this happens. Your throat might be sore for a few hours after the test.
You won’t need to do anything to prepare for most types of echo. For a transesophageal echo, your doctor may ask you not to eat or drink for 8 hours before the test.
If you have a transesophageal echo, you may experience some side effects from the medicine given to help you relax, such as problems breathing or nausea (feeling sick to your stomach). Rarely, the tube used causes minor throat injuries.
A normal echocardiogram reveals normal heart valves and chambers and normal heart wall movement.
An abnormal echocardiogram can mean many things. Some abnormalities are very minor and do not pose major risks. Other abnormalities are signs of serious heart disease. You will need more tests by a specialist in this case. It is very important to talk about the results of your echocardiogram with your provider.
Heart Tests | NHLBI, NIH. Mar 24, 2022 [accessed on Dec 13, 2023]
Heart Health Tests: MedlinePlus. National Library of Medicine. Feb 28, 2017 [accessed on Dec 13, 2023]
Echocardiogram: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia [accessed on Dec 13, 2023]
Additional Materials (7)
Heart normal transthoracic echocardiography
Heart normal transthoracic echocardiography views
Image by Patrick J. Lynch, medical illustrator; C. Carl Jaffe, MD, cardiologist
Echocardiography of hypertrophic-obstructive cardiomyopathy in a domestic cat
Hypertrophic-obstructive cardiomyopathy in a domestic shorthair cat, visualized by echocardiography, color-doppler, right parasternal, long axis. Note the thickened septum, the obstructed LVOT and the mitral regurgitation
Image by Kalumet
Medical ultrasound
This is a sonographer performing an ultrasound examination of the heart of a baby. The child's mother is present. This examination is called echocardiography.
Image by Gislaug Thorsteinsson
Echocardiography – What you need to know
Video by Cleveland Clinic/YouTube
V. Pavliuk, MD, PhD. Echocardiography for beginners
Video by msvitu1/YouTube
What is Echocardiography?
Video by Mayo Clinic/YouTube
Fetal Echocardiography: Protocol and Technique
Video by Intersocietal Accreditation Commission/YouTube
Heart normal transthoracic echocardiography
Patrick J. Lynch, medical illustrator; C. Carl Jaffe, MD, cardiologist
Echocardiography of hypertrophic-obstructive cardiomyopathy in a domestic cat
Kalumet
Medical ultrasound
Gislaug Thorsteinsson
6:29
Echocardiography – What you need to know
Cleveland Clinic/YouTube
46:28
V. Pavliuk, MD, PhD. Echocardiography for beginners
msvitu1/YouTube
4:14
What is Echocardiography?
Mayo Clinic/YouTube
1:02:05
Fetal Echocardiography: Protocol and Technique
Intersocietal Accreditation Commission/YouTube
Electrocardiogram
Electrocardiogram
Also called: EKG, ECG
An electrocardiogram (EKG) is a test that measures electrical signals in your heart. An abnormal EKG can be a sign of heart damage or disease.
Electrocardiogram
Also called: EKG, ECG
An electrocardiogram (EKG) is a test that measures electrical signals in your heart. An abnormal EKG can be a sign of heart damage or disease.
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Use the slider below to see how your results affect your
health.
Your result is Normal.
EKG results are normal with a consistent heartbeat and rhythm.
Related conditions
An electrocardiogram (EKG) test is a simple, painless, and quick test that records your heart's electrical activity. Each time your heart beats, an electrical signal travels through your heart. The signal triggers your heart's four chambers to contract (squeeze) in the proper rhythm so that your heart can pump blood to your body.
An EKG recording of these signals looks like wavy lines. Your provider can read these lines to look for abnormal heart activity that may be a sign of heart disease or damage.
An EKG can show:
How fast your heart is beating
Whether the rhythm of your heartbeat is steady or irregular
The strength and timing of the electrical signals passing through each part of your heart
Sometimes information from an EKG can help measure the size and position of your heart's chambers.
An EKG is often the first test you'll have if you have signs of a heart condition. It may be done in your provider's office, an outpatient clinic, in a hospital before surgery, or as part of another heart test called a stress test.
An EKG test is also called an ECG. EKG is based on the German spelling, elektrokardiogramm. EKG may be preferred over ECG to avoid confusion with an EEG, a test that measures brain waves.
An EKG test is used to help diagnose and monitor many types of heart conditions and their treatment. These conditions include:
Arrhythmia
Cardiomyopathy
Coronary artery disease
Heart attack
Heart failure
Heart valve diseases
Congenital heart defects
EKG tests are mainly used for people who have symptoms of a heart condition or have already been diagnosed with a heart condition. They are not generally used to screen people who don't have symptoms unless they have an increased risk of developing heart disease. Your provider can explain your risk for heart disease and let you know if need to have an EKG test. In certain cases, your provider may have you see a cardiologist, a doctor who specializes in heart diseases.
You may need an EKG test if you have symptoms of a heart condition, including:
Chest pain
Rapid or irregular heartbeat
Shortness of breath
Dizziness
Fatigue
A decrease in your ability to exercise
You may also need an EKG to:
Find out if you had a heart attack in the past but didn't know it
Monitor your heart if you have a known heart condition
Check how well your heart treatment is working, including medicine and/or a pacemaker
Check your heart health:
Before having surgery
If you have an increased risk for developing heart disease because:
Heart disease runs in your family
You have another condition, such as diabetes, that makes your risk higher than normal
An EKG test only takes a few minutes. It generally includes these steps:
You will lie on an exam table.
A provider will place several electrodes (small sensors that stick to your skin) on your arms, legs, and chest. The provider may need to shave body hair to make sure the electrodes stay on.
The electrodes are attached by wires to a computer or a special EKG machine
You will lie very still while your heart's electrical activity is recorded on a computer or printed on paper by an EKG machine.
You don't need any special preparations for an EKG test.
There is very little risk to having an EKG. You may feel a little discomfort or skin irritation after the electrodes are removed. The EKG doesn't send any electricity to your body. It only records electrical signals from your heart, so there's no risk of electric shock.
Your provider will check your EKG results for a steady heartbeat and rhythm. If your results are not normal, it may be a sign of a heart condition. The specific condition depends on which part of your EKG wasn't normal.
You may need to have other heart health tests before your provider can make a diagnosis. Your provider can explain what your test results mean for your heart health and treatment.
An EKG is a "snapshot" of your heart's activity over a very short time. If you have heart symptoms that come and go, a regular EKG may not catch the problem. In that case, your provider may recommend that you wear a small portable EKG monitor that can record your heart for days or longer while you do your normal activities. You may also need a longer EKG recording if your provider wants to check how well your heart is working after a heart attack or to see if treatment is helping you.
There are many types of long-term EKG monitors. The two main groups are Holter monitors, which can be worn for up to two days, and event monitors, which may record your heart activity for weeks to years depending on the type.
A Holter monitor is about the size of a small camera. You usually wear it on a belt or strap around your neck for a day or two. Wires under your clothes attach to electrodes that stick to your chest. The monitor records your heart's electrical signals the whole time you're wearing it. You may be asked to keep a diary of your symptoms during the test period. After the test period, you remove the monitor and return it according to the instructions. A provider will review the recording of your heart's electrical activity from the monitor.
An event monitor records your heart's electrical activity when you press a button or when the device detects abnormal heart activity. There two main types of event monitors:
Event monitors that you wear or carry with you. You wear some monitors on your chest or wrist. Other monitors are designed to carry. If you have symptoms, you hold the monitor to your chest. These event monitors may be used for weeks to months. Some of them wirelessly transmit information about your heart to a provider. Others must be returned so a provider can examine the recorded information.
Event monitors that are inserted under the skin of your chest. These are called implantable event monitors. They are put under your skin during minor surgery that's often done in a doctor's office. These monitors can track your heart's electrical activity for years. You may need this type of EKG monitor if you had a stroke or frequent fainting, and your provider hasn't found the cause. Implantable monitors wirelessly transmit the information they record so your provider can regularly check it.
Electrocardiogram: MedlinePlus Medical Test [accessed on Mar 09, 2023]
Electrocardiogram: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia [accessed on Feb 04, 2019]
Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."
Additional Materials (35)
How to Read an Electrocardiogram (ECG): Introduction – Cardiology | Lecturio
Video by Lecturio Medical/YouTube
Major Types of Heart Block
Video by Jeff Otjen/YouTube
How An ECG Works
Video by LivingHealthyChicago/YouTube
This browser does not support the video element.
What are Arrhythmias?
Your heart is electric. In this video you'll see how your heart's electrical system works, and what happens when it malfunctions. Voyage inside the human body as Dr. Mehmet Oz and others explain the dangers of heart arrhythmias, including tachycardia, bradycardia, and atrial fibrillation.
Video by TheVisualMD
12 Lead ECG Explained, Animation
Video by Alila Medical Media/YouTube
Bundle Branch Block, Animation.
Video by Alila Medical Media/YouTube
QRS Transitional Zone. See link for real voice update in description!
Video by Alila Medical Media/YouTube
ECG Interpretation Basics - ST Segment Changes. See link for real voice update in description!
Video by Alila Medical Media/YouTube
Cardiac Axis Interpretation. See link for real voice update in description!
Video by Alila Medical Media/YouTube
Electrical system of the heart | Circulatory system physiology | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy
Video by khanacademymedicine/YouTube
Cardiovascular | EKG Basics
Video by Ninja Nerd/YouTube
Cardiovascular | EKG's
Video by Ninja Nerd/YouTube
Normal sinus rhythm on an EKG | Circulatory System and Disease | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy
Video by khanacademymedicine/YouTube
Cardiac Conduction System and Understanding ECG, Animation.
Video by Alila Medical Media/YouTube
Willem Einthoven and the ECG - Stuff of Genius
Video by Stuff of Genius - HowStuffWorks/YouTube
Electrocardiogram (ECG)
A useful tool for determining whether a person has heart disease, an electrocardiogram (ECG) is a test that records the electrical activity of the heart. An ECG, which is painless (no electricity is sent through the body), is used to measure damage to the heart, how fast the heart is beating and whether it is beating normally, the effects of drugs or devices used to control the heart (such as a pacemaker), and the size and position of the heart chambers.
Image by TheVisualMD
Cardiac cycle
Cardiac Cycle vs Electrocardiogram
Image by OpenStax College
Medical Checkups
Image by TheVisualMD
Electrocardiogram
Electrocardiograms (EKGs) are the most commonly given test used to diagnose coronary artery disease. They record the heart's electrical activity and show evidence of angina or heart attack.
Image by TheVisualMD
electrocardiogram-illustration made up from Medications
A normal tracing shows the P wave, QRS complex, and T wave. Also indicated are the PR, QT, QRS, and ST intervals, plus the P-R and S-T segments.
Image by CNX Openstax
What To Expect After an Electrocardiogram
Normal ECG/EKG complex with labels
Image by Derivative: Hazmat2 Original: Hank van Helvete
Cardiac Stress Test
The image shows a patient having a stress test. Electrodes are attached to the patient's chest and connected to an EKG (electrocardiogram) machine. The EKG records the heart's electrical activity. A blood pressure cuff is used to record the patient's blood pressure while he walks on a treadmill.
Image by National Heart Lung and Blood Institute
Relationship between the Cardiac Cycle and ECG
Initially, both the atria and ventricles are relaxed (diastole). The P wave represents depolarization of the atria and is followed by atrial contraction (systole). Atrial systole extends until the QRS complex, at which point, the atria relax. The QRS complex represents depolarization of the ventricles and is followed by ventricular contraction. The T wave represents the repolarization of the ventricles and marks the beginning of ventricular relaxation.
Image by CNX Openstax
The Electric Heart
Image by TheVisualMD
Electrocardiogram (EKG)
Electrocardiogram (EKG) is a test used to measure the electrical activity of the heart.
Image by U.S. National Library of Medicine
Comparison of Arrhythmia and Normal ECG
As the muscle tissue in an overstressed heart expands, it tears and scars. The resulting tissue - hardened and marred - does not conduct electricity well. The result is that the system can no longer be relied on to deliver the carefully synchronized pattern of jolts needed to keep the heart pumping smoothly. Doctors call it \"arrhythmia.\" The heart is literally \"skipping a beat.\" This can be measured by an electrocardiogram (ECG). In some cases, arrhythmia can mean simply that the heartbeat is too fast or too slow - a bothersome but not necessarily life-threatening condition. In the worst cases, the arrhythmia indicates a potentially lethal instability in the heart's electric system. The signals that control the heart's contractions get crossed and the heart spasms. If not corrected immediately, this fibrillation of the heart is often fatal. In the U.S., more than 1,000 people die every day from sudden cardiac death, or cardiac arrest.
Image by TheVisualMD
Heart Revealing Chamber and Valve
Your heart beats faster or slower depending on information from your brain, which monitors your body's need for blood. However, the basic rhythm of your heart is automatic; it does not depend on signals from your brain. Your heart cells can generate their own electrical signals, which trigger the contractions and cause the entire heart to pump in synchrony. A specialized bundle of muscle and nerve cells called the sinoatrial node (SA node) sits at the top of the right atrium and is the pacemaker of the heart. It generates the signal for the atria to contract and send blood to the ventricles. A similar node - the atrioventricular or AV node - sits at the atrioventricular septum near the bottom of the right atrium and relays the signal from the SA node to the ventricles to contract and pump blood out of the heart. An electrocardiogram (ECG) measures the electrical signals given off by these two nodes and their conduction through the heart. By looking at the frequency and the height of the peaks and valleys of these signals on an ECG, healthcare professionals get a very good idea of how well the electrical system of your heart is working.
Image by TheVisualMD
Electrocardigram
An electrocardiogram (EKG) detects and records the heart's electrical activity. When the electrical impulse passes through the atria a small peak is recorded (P), followed by a steep spike as it erupts through the ventricles (R), and then another small peak (T) as the wave passes through and the heart repolarizes (recharges) itself for the next beat.
Image by TheVisualMD
Electro- cardiogram
Electrocardiograms, or EKGs, record the electrical activity of the heart. Since injured heart muscle conducts electrical impulses abnormally, the EKG shows if the patient has had or is having a heart attack. It is usually the first test performed.
Image by TheVisualMD
SinusRhythmLabels
Schematic diagram of normal sinus rhythm for a human heart as seen on ECG. In atrial fibrillation, however, the P waves, which represent depolarization of the atria, are absent.
Image by Agateller (Anthony Atkielski)
How To Use an Automated External Defibrillator
The image shows a typical setup using an automated external defibrillator (AED). The AED has step-by-step instructions and voice prompts that enable an untrained bystander to correctly use the machine.
Image by National Heart Lung and Blood Institute
Who Needs an Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator?
Lead II (2) ECG EKG strip of an AICD ICD converting a patient back into thier baseline cardiac ryhthm. The AICD fires near the end of the strip, where the straight line is seen.
Image by Public Domain
Cardiac Cycle
CG Animated Human Heart cut section showing the atria, ventricles and valves, synced with wiggers diagram.
Image by DrJanaOfficial/Wikimedia
Mammalian Heart and Blood Vessels
The beating of the heart is regulated by an electrical impulse that causes the characteristic reading of an ECG. The signal is initiated at the sinoatrial valve. The signal then (a) spreads to the atria, causing them to contract. The signal is (b) delayed at the atrioventricular node before it is passed on to the (c) heart apex. The delay allows the atria to relax before the (d) ventricles contract. The final part of the ECG cycle prepares the heart for the next beat.
Image by CNX Openstax
9:53
How to Read an Electrocardiogram (ECG): Introduction – Cardiology | Lecturio
Lecturio Medical/YouTube
9:23
Major Types of Heart Block
Jeff Otjen/YouTube
2:45
How An ECG Works
LivingHealthyChicago/YouTube
3:27
What are Arrhythmias?
TheVisualMD
3:27
12 Lead ECG Explained, Animation
Alila Medical Media/YouTube
3:48
Bundle Branch Block, Animation.
Alila Medical Media/YouTube
3:50
QRS Transitional Zone. See link for real voice update in description!
Alila Medical Media/YouTube
1:24
ECG Interpretation Basics - ST Segment Changes. See link for real voice update in description!
Alila Medical Media/YouTube
3:32
Cardiac Axis Interpretation. See link for real voice update in description!
Alila Medical Media/YouTube
9:43
Electrical system of the heart | Circulatory system physiology | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy
khanacademymedicine/YouTube
52:29
Cardiovascular | EKG Basics
Ninja Nerd/YouTube
20:37
Cardiovascular | EKG's
Ninja Nerd/YouTube
8:53
Normal sinus rhythm on an EKG | Circulatory System and Disease | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy
khanacademymedicine/YouTube
3:45
Cardiac Conduction System and Understanding ECG, Animation.
Alila Medical Media/YouTube
1:46
Willem Einthoven and the ECG - Stuff of Genius
Stuff of Genius - HowStuffWorks/YouTube
Electrocardiogram (ECG)
TheVisualMD
Cardiac cycle
OpenStax College
Medical Checkups
TheVisualMD
Electrocardiogram
TheVisualMD
electrocardiogram-illustration made up from Medications
GDJ
Electrocardiogram
CNX Openstax
What To Expect After an Electrocardiogram
Derivative: Hazmat2 Original: Hank van Helvete
Cardiac Stress Test
National Heart Lung and Blood Institute
Relationship between the Cardiac Cycle and ECG
CNX Openstax
The Electric Heart
TheVisualMD
Electrocardiogram (EKG)
U.S. National Library of Medicine
Comparison of Arrhythmia and Normal ECG
TheVisualMD
Heart Revealing Chamber and Valve
TheVisualMD
Electrocardigram
TheVisualMD
Electro- cardiogram
TheVisualMD
SinusRhythmLabels
Agateller (Anthony Atkielski)
How To Use an Automated External Defibrillator
National Heart Lung and Blood Institute
Who Needs an Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator?
Public Domain
Cardiac Cycle
DrJanaOfficial/Wikimedia
Mammalian Heart and Blood Vessels
CNX Openstax
Lung Diffusion Testing
Lung Diffusion Testing
Also called: Gas Diffusion Study, Diffusing Capacity of the Lung for Carbon Monoxide, DLCO
A lung diffusion test is a painless and risk-free procedure in which you will be required to inhale a small amount of carbon monoxide that will be compared with the amount of the same carbon monoxide you exhale. This is useful to assess how well your lungs are functioning.
Lung Diffusion Testing
Also called: Gas Diffusion Study, Diffusing Capacity of the Lung for Carbon Monoxide, DLCO
A lung diffusion test is a painless and risk-free procedure in which you will be required to inhale a small amount of carbon monoxide that will be compared with the amount of the same carbon monoxide you exhale. This is useful to assess how well your lungs are functioning.
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Use the slider below to see how your results affect your
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Your result is Normal.
A normal result means that your lung function is normal because the carbon monoxide was successfully absorbed into your bloodstream.
Related conditions
A lung diffusion test is used to assess how well the lungs are able to allow the “diffusion” or exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide in and out the blood.
This test helps determine how well your lungs are functioning.
Your doctor may want to order this test to help diagnose and monitor chronic lung conditions, such as:
Asthma
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Restrictive lung disease, such as pulmonary fibrosis
Cystic fibrosis
Other disorders affecting lung function
Your healthcare practitioner will put clips on your nose and will place a mouthpiece tightly around your mouth so you can breathe through it.
Then, you will inhale air that contains a very small, and safe, amount of carbon monoxide or another gas that can be used as a tracer, such as helium or methane. At this point, you will be required to hold your breath for 10 seconds and then quickly exhale it out of your lungs.
The exhaled air is then analyzed to determine how much of the tracer gas was absorbed in your lungs.
You will be asked to eat a light meal on the day of the test, and avoid smoking for at least a 6 hours before the test is done.
Inform your healthcare practitioner if you are taking any over-the-counter or prescription medications since you might be asked to temporarily stop taking certain drugs that may affect your test results, especially puffer medications.
There are no known risks associated with this test.
Normal results vary depending on the person’s age, sex, height, ethnicity, and health status.
Normal
If there’s significantly less exhaled carbon monoxide in your breath when compared with the amount of carbon monoxide that you inhaled, then this means that your lung function is normal because the gas was successfully absorbed into your bloodstream.
Abnormal
If the amount of inhaled and exhaled carbon monoxide in your breath is similar, it means that there is a problem in your lungs that is preventing the gas from being absorbed adequately. This can happen due to:
Asthma
Emphysema
Cystic fibrosis
Pulmonary fibrosis
Sarcoidosis (a chronic disease characterized by the development of small tumors throughout the body)
Airway blockage by a foreign body
Pulmonary hypertension (high blood pressure in the lungs)
Lung tissue loss
Pulmonary embolism
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003854.htm [accessed on Feb 03, 2019]
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/15445-gas-diffusion-study [accessed on Feb 03, 2019]
https://www.healthline.com/health/lung-diffusion-testing [accessed on Mar 20, 2019]
https://www.verywellhealth.com/lung-diffusion-tests-914897 [accessed on Mar 20, 2019]
https://www.nationaljewish.org/treatment-programs/tests-procedures/pulmonary-physiology/pulmonary-function/lung-diffusion-capacity [accessed on Mar 20, 2019]
https://www.uclahealth.org/lungcancer/lung-diffusion [accessed on Mar 20, 2019]
Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."
Lung Function Tests
Lung Function Tests
Also called: Pulmonary Function Tests, PFTs, Respiratory Function Tests
Lung function tests are a group of tests that check to see if your lungs are working right. For most tests, you will breathe into a mouthpiece while a machine measures how well your lungs are working.
Lung Function Tests
Also called: Pulmonary Function Tests, PFTs, Respiratory Function Tests
Lung function tests are a group of tests that check to see if your lungs are working right. For most tests, you will breathe into a mouthpiece while a machine measures how well your lungs are working.
Lung function tests are a group of tests that check how well your lungs are working. These tests are also called pulmonary function tests, or PFTs. They may be used with other tests and information to help diagnose and monitor certain lung diseases.
There are many types of lung function tests. Most of them involve breathing through a mouthpiece. The mouthpiece is connected to a device that makes different types of measurements, such as:
How much air your lungs can hold
How well you move air in and out of your lungs when you breathe
How well your lungs absorb oxygen from the air you breathe and move it into your blood
Lung function tests also help check the health of your airways. Your airways are the parts of your body that carry air to your lungs, including your nose, throat, trachea (windpipe), and bronchial tubes that connect your windpipe to each lung.
Common lung function tests include:
Spirometry. This lung function test is used the most. A spirometry test measures how much air you breathe out and how fast you can blow air out of your lungs.
Lung volume test, also called as body plethysmography. This test is the most accurate way to measure the amount of air your lungs can hold. It also measures the amount of air that remains in your lungs after you exhale as much as you can.
Lung diffusion capacity test. This test measures how well your lungs deliver oxygen to your blood from the air you breathe.
Exercise tests. There are different types of tests that measure how well your lungs work when you are active, including:
Six minute walk test
Cardiopulmonary (heart and lung) exercise test (CPET)
Your health care provider may order one or more lung function tests, depending on the reason you need to be tested.
Other names: pulmonary function tests, PFTs
Lung function tests are often used to:
Help diagnose and monitor lung diseases, including:
Asthma
COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)
Emphysema
Pulmonary fibrosis
Pulmonary hypertension
Guide decisions about treating certain lung diseases with medicine
Help diagnose and monitor certain diseases that can affect the lungs, such as scleroderma or sarcoidosis
Check lung function before surgery
Check for lung damage from exposure to chemicals or other substances at home or work
Lung function tests are done for many different reasons. You may need testing if you:
Have signs and/or symptoms of a breathing problem such as:
Shortness of breath
Wheezing
Coughing
A tight feeling in your chest or trouble breathing deeply
An abnormal chest x-ray
Have a lung condition or another type of condition that could damage your lungs
Have been exposed to substances that can cause lung damage, such as asbestos, radiation, or certain medicines
Are going to have surgery
Your provider may also order a lung function test as part of your routine exam.
There are different ways to do each type of lung function test. But the basic steps are about the same.
For a spirometry test:
You'll sit on a chair with a soft clip on your nose. The clip makes sure you breathe only through your mouth.
You'll place your lips tightly around a mouthpiece that's connected to a device called a spirometer.
You'll be told to take a deep breath in and then blow it out into the mouthpiece as hard as you can. The spirometer will measure how much air you breathe out and how fast you blow it out.
You may be given medicine to inhale (breath in) that opens your airways. Then you'll blow into the tube again to see if the medicine helps you blow out more air faster.
For a lung volume (body plethysmography) test:
You'll sit in a small, airtight room with clear walls. It looks like a telephone booth.
You'll wear a soft clip on your nose to make sure you breathe only through your mouth.
You'll place your lips tightly around a mouthpiece.
You'll be told how to breathe in and out through the mouthpiece.
Air pressure changes inside the room will show how much air your lungs can hold and how much air stays in your lungs after you breath out.
A lung volume test may be done by breathing a special mixture of gases for a few minutes while wearing a clip on your nose. For this test, you do not need to sit in an airtight room.
For a gas diffusion test:
You'll sit on a chair with a soft clip on your nose. The clip makes sure you breathe only through your mouth.
You'll place your lips tightly around a mouthpiece that's connected to a spirometer.
You will be asked to breathe in a very small, safe amount of carbon monoxide gas. Then you'll hold your breath for about 10 seconds.
Next, you'll breathe out through the mouthpiece. The spirometer will measure the amount of carbon dioxide you exhale. This shows how much of the gas your lungs were able to absorb and move into your blood.
For exercise tests:
Six minute walk test:
Your blood pressure will be measured, and you'll be asked to rate any shortness of breath and fatigue that you feel.
You'll walk as far as possible in six minutes, usually in a hallway.
Your heart rate and the amount of oxygen in your blood will be checked as you walk.
After six minutes, your blood pressure will be measured again, and you'll rate your shortness of breath and fatigue.
If you normally use portable oxygen for a lung condition, you'll be able to use it during this test.
Cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET):
You'll be attached to monitors and machines that will measure your breathing, heart rate, blood pressure, and blood oxygen levels while you exercise.
You'll breathe through a face mask or mouthpiece connected to a monitor. It measures how much oxygen you breath in and how much carbon dioxide you breath out.
You'll exercise on a stationary bicycle or treadmill for a total of 10 to 20 minutes:
You'll begin exercising with the bike or treadmill set to the easiest level.
You'll slowly increase your effort until you feel you can't continue. On a bicycle, the resistance will increase, so it's harder to pedal. On a treadmill, the speed will increase, and the platform may tilt so you feel like you're walking uphill.
As you exercise, you'll be asked to rate how you're feeling. If you have serious symptoms, the test will stop.
The bike or treadmill will return to the easiest level while you keep pedaling or walking to cool down.
Your provider will let you know how to prepare for your lung function test. To make sure your test results are accurate, follow the instructions you're give. In general:
Wear loose, comfortable clothing.
Don't eat a large meal within at least two hours of the test.
You may need to avoid certain activities or foods and beverages before your test. Your provider will tell you for how long. These include:
Heavy exercise
Smoking
Drinking alcohol
Drinking or eating products with caffeine, such as coffee, colas, and chocolate
If you use inhaler medicines (bronchodilators), you may need to stop for a period of time before testing. Your provider will tell you when to stop. But never stop taking any medicine without talking with your provider first.
If you wear dentures, wear them for the test. They'll help you close your lips tightly around the mouthpiece.
There is very little risk to having a lung function test. Some people may feel lightheaded, dizzy, or tired from breathing hard. It's also common to cough. Some people may feel nervous being in a small space for a lung volume test. If you have concerns about your test, talk with your provider.
A normal lung function test result for you depends on the size of your lungs. Your lung size is based on your height, sex, and age. So, your provider will compare your test results to results from healthy people who are the same height, age, and sex as you.
If your results aren't normal, it may mean you have a lung condition. Lung function tests can't diagnose which specific lung disease you have. But your test results can tell which of the two main types you have:
Obstructive lung conditions cause your airways to become narrow, making it hard for air to flow out of your lungs. Examples of obstructive lung diseases include asthma, bronchitis, and emphysema.
Restrictive lung conditions decrease the amount of air your lungs can hold. This may happen if your lungs or your chest muscles can't expand fully when you breath in. Examples of restrictive lung conditions include scleroderma, sarcoidosis, pulmonary fibrosis, and interstitial lung diseases.
If you have questions about your results, talk with your provider.
If you need one or more lung function tests, your provider may also order a blood oxygen level test called an arterial blood gas (ABG) test. This blood test measures the amount of oxygen and carbon dioxide in your blood.
https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/lung-function-tests/ [accessed on May 31, 2019]
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003853.htm [accessed on May 31, 2019]
https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/pulmonary-function-tests [accessed on May 31, 2019]
Spirometry Test
Spirometry Test
Also called: Breathing Test, Lung Capacity, Pulmonary Function Testing
Spirometry is a pulmonary function test that is used to help diagnose and monitor chronic lung conditions such as asthma or COPD. During this test, you will make maximum breathing efforts several times, and a special machine called spirometer will be used to calculate and graph your results.
Spirometry Test
Also called: Breathing Test, Lung Capacity, Pulmonary Function Testing
Spirometry is a pulmonary function test that is used to help diagnose and monitor chronic lung conditions such as asthma or COPD. During this test, you will make maximum breathing efforts several times, and a special machine called spirometer will be used to calculate and graph your results.
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%
35
50
60
70
80
Your result is Normal.
This indicates the absence of airway obstruction.
Related conditions
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Use the slider below to see how your results affect your
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%
85
Your result is Normal.
Restrictive lung disease can cause a normal or increased FEV1/FVC ratio. But, in the absence of lung disease, a normal value indicates healthy lungs.
Related conditions
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Use the slider below to see how your results affect your
health.
%
80
Your result is Normal.
Normal results vary from person to person depending on their gender, age, height, and race.
Related conditions
Spirometry is a pulmonary function test that is used to estimate the size of the lungs and measure the rate of air flow into and out of them. This helps determine how well your lungs are functioning.
Your doctor may want to order this test to help diagnose and monitor chronic lung conditions, such as:
Asthma
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Restrictive lung disease, such as pulmonary fibrosis
Cystic fibrosis
Other disorders affecting lung function
Spirometry let doctors diagnose lung diseases at early stages when treatment is most effective. Then, routine spirometry tests can help monitor treatment effectiveness by assessing changes in lung functions.
A spirometry test can be performed in your doctor’s office.
During the test, your healthcare provider will place a clip on your nose to keep your nostrils closed. Then, you will be asked to sit, take a deep breath in, hold your breath for one or two seconds, and then exhale as hard as you can into a small machine called a spirometer until your lungs feel entirely empty.
You will be asked to repeat this procedure at least three times to ensure consistent results.
If at this point, your results show evidence of a breathing disorder, your doctor might give you an inhaled drug known as a bronchodilator to open up your airways; then, you will be asked to wait for approximately 15 minutes to perform another round of sets. Both sets of tests will be compared at the end of the exam to see whether the bronchodilator helped increase your airflow.
A computer that is attached to the spirometer calculates and graphs your results.
You will be asked to refrain from taking alcohol on the day of the test, and avoid smoking, eating, or exercising for at least a few hours before the test is done. Don’t wear tight clothing that could restrict your breathing.
Inform your healthcare practitioner if you are taking any over-the-counter or prescription medications since you might be asked to temporarily stop taking certain drugs that may affect your test results, especially puffer medications.
Complications are rare during or after a spirometry test. You may feel dizziness or experience shortness of breath immediately after performing the test. In very rare cases, severe breathing problems may be triggered.
Spirometry is not recommended for people who recently had eye surgery, heart surgery, or have other heart problems.
Spirometry results indicate whether your lungs are functioning normally. It does this through several breathing measurements:
Forced vital capacity (FVC): this is the total air volume that you can force out of your lungs after you take your biggest breath in.
Forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1): this is the amount of air that you can blow out of your lungs within the first second. It indicates whether or not there is airway obstruction.
FEV1/FVC ratio: this is the percentage of the FVC exhaled in the first second.
Normal results vary from person to person depending on their gender, age, height, and race.
Abnormal spirometry results could be due to either restrictive lung disease (such as pulmonary fibrosis or sarcoidosis), obstructive lung disease (such as asthma or COPD), or a combination of both restrictive and obstructive lung disease.
Your doctor will take into consideration all spirometry measurements, along with the results of other tests, and your clinical findings to determine which type of lung disease is present.
Spirometry is often performed once a year or once every two years to monitor people with well-controlled breathing disorders. People who have uncontrolled or more severe breathing problems may need to have this test more frequently.
Pulmonary Function Tests | National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) [accessed on Dec 09, 2018]
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Additional Materials (14)
An illustration depicting an incentive spirometer.
An illustration depicting an incentive spirometer.
Image by BruceBlaus
A medical illustration depicting spirometry
A medical illustration depicting spirometry
Image by BruceBlaus
Testing and Diagnosis
Your doctor will first take your medical history and ask you about your symptoms. He or she will probably listen to your lungs using a stethoscope, although there may be no abnormal chest sounds between asthma attacks. Your doctor may ask about any patterns relating to your symptoms: are they worse during allergy seasons, at work or at home, during exercise? Do you have a family history of asthma?
Image by TheVisualMD
Testing and Diagnosis
Your doctor will first take your medical history and ask you about your symptoms. He or she will probably listen to your lungs using a stethoscope, although there may be no abnormal chest sounds between asthma attacks. Your doctor may ask about any patterns relating to your symptoms: are they worse during allergy seasons, at work or at home, during exercise? Do you have a family history of asthma?
Image by TheVisualMD
Testing and Diagnosis of Asthma
Testing and Diagnosis of Asthma
Image by TheVisualMD
Airway during asthma symptoms
Figure A shows the location of the lungs and airways in the body. Figure B shows a cross-section of a normal airway. Figure C shows a cross-section of an airway during asthma symptoms.
Image by National Heart, Lung, Blood Institute
How Is the Cause of Cough Diagnosed?
The image shows how spirometry is done. The patient takes a deep breath and blows as hard as possible into a tube connected to a spirometer. The spirometer measures the amount of air breathed out. It also measures how fast the air was blown out.
Image by National Heart Lung and Blood Institute (NIH)
Asthma before-after
During an asthma episode, inflamed airways react to environmental triggers such as smoke, dust, or pollen. The airways narrow and produce excess mucus, making it difficult to breathe.
Image by FDA/Renée Gordon; vectors by Mysid
How Is COPD Diagnosed?
Doing a spirometry
Image by Jmarchn
Asthma in Children
A child using a peak expiratory flow meter in a pediatric clinic.
Image by National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, a division of the National Institute of Health
Types of Lung Function Tests
A man undergoing whole body plethysmography
Image by Finchbook01 (talk)
Asthma Attacks
Constriction of the bronchioles and excess mucous production during an asthma attack.
Image by 7mike5000
Gas Exchange across Respiratory Surfaces
The partial pressures of oxygen and carbon dioxide change as blood moves through the body.
Image by CNX Openstax
Spirometry: how to take a lung function test
Video by The European Lung Foundation/YouTube
An illustration depicting an incentive spirometer.
BruceBlaus
A medical illustration depicting spirometry
BruceBlaus
Testing and Diagnosis
TheVisualMD
Testing and Diagnosis
TheVisualMD
Testing and Diagnosis of Asthma
TheVisualMD
Airway during asthma symptoms
National Heart, Lung, Blood Institute
How Is the Cause of Cough Diagnosed?
National Heart Lung and Blood Institute (NIH)
Asthma before-after
FDA/Renée Gordon; vectors by Mysid
How Is COPD Diagnosed?
Jmarchn
Asthma in Children
National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, a division of the National Institute of Health
Types of Lung Function Tests
Finchbook01 (talk)
Asthma Attacks
7mike5000
Gas Exchange across Respiratory Surfaces
CNX Openstax
4:00
Spirometry: how to take a lung function test
The European Lung Foundation/YouTube
Plethysmography
Plethysmography
Also called: Pulmonary plethysmography, Body plethysmography, Lung Volume Measurement
Lung plethysmography, also called pulmonary plethysmography, is a test used to calculate how much air you can hold in your lungs. This helps determine whether you have problems with your lung capacity.
Plethysmography
Also called: Pulmonary plethysmography, Body plethysmography, Lung Volume Measurement
Lung plethysmography, also called pulmonary plethysmography, is a test used to calculate how much air you can hold in your lungs. This helps determine whether you have problems with your lung capacity.
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Use the slider below to see how your results affect your
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Your result is Normal.
Normal results vary depending on the person’s age, sex, fitness level, and body size.
Related conditions
Plethysmography is a test that uses a special machine called plethysmograph to measure volume changes in different areas of your body.
A lung plethysmography is used to calculate how much air you can hold in your lungs. Measurements include:
Functional residual volume (FRV): this is the amount of air left in your lungs after you force out as much air as you can.
Functional residual capacity (FRC): this is the amount of air that is left in your lungs after you breathe out normally.
Total lung capacity (TLC): this is the total amount of air in your lungs after you take your biggest breath in.
Your doctor may want to order this test in the following situations:
If you have signs and symptoms of upper respiratory problems, such as pain or shortness of breath.
To measure lung function in people with chronic pulmonary diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, or cystic fibrosis.
To differentiate obstructive lung disease (such as asthma or COPD) from restrictive lung disease (such as pulmonary fibrosis or sarcoidosis), especially when other pulmonary function tests have failed to do so.
To monitor your response to treatment.
To assess whether your lungs would tolerate lung cancer surgery.
You will be asked to sit in a small, airtight room, that looks very much like a telephone booth. Your healthcare practitioner will then place clips on your nose and will give you a mouthpiece so you can breathe through it.
Then, you will be guided through various breathing patterns, alternating normal breathing, panting, and deep breaths.
If you are receiving oxygen, it will be temporarily suspended during the duration of this test, which usually lasts around 15 minutes.
You will be asked to stop smoking for at least 8 hours and avoid doing exercise for a couple hours before the test. You should also eat a light meal on the day of the test.
Make sure to wear loose and comfortable clothing.
Most people don’t experience any discomfort during this test. However, in some cases, some symptoms like lightheadedness, dizziness, shortness of breath, or anxiety from being in a tight space can occur.
Normal
Normal results vary depending on the person’s age, sex, fitness level, and body size.
Abnormal
An abnormal plethysmography test result indicates a problem with your lung capacity, but it doesn’t provide a specific diagnosis. Further testing is usually required.
An abnormal result may be due to:
Emphysema
Cystic fibrosis
Pulmonary fibrosis
Sarcoidosis (a chronic disease characterized by the development of small tumors throughout the body)
Obesity
Scoliosis (abnormally curved spine)
This test is not the same as impedance plethysmography which is a test for blood clots in the legs.
Another test called spirometry is the standard way to measure lung function; however, lung plethysmography is more accurate.
This test cannot be done in people who require continuous oxygen therapy or in people with claustrophobia (a severe fear of being in small and enclosed places).
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/15467-body-plethysmography-pulmonary-function-test [accessed on Feb 03, 2019]
https://www.healthline.com/health/lung-plethysmography [accessed on Feb 03, 2019]
https://www.healthline.com/health/plethysmography#results [accessed on Mar 14, 2019]
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003771.htm [accessed on Mar 14, 2019]
https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-is-plethysmography-2249161 [accessed on Mar 14, 2019]
https://lunginstitute.com/blog/lung-plethysmography/ [accessed on Mar 14, 2019]
Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."
Additional Materials (12)
Body Plethysmography Chamber
Chamber used for Body Plethysmography and other related medical tests. Photographed at Swedish Hospital Ballard Campus, Seattle, Washington.
Image by Joe Mabel/Wikimedia
Lung Volumes Measurement by Body Plethysmography
Lung Volumes Measurement by Body Plethysmography technology from COSMED (http://www.cosmed.com/en/products/pulmonary-function/q-box-body-plethysmography)
Image by Cosmed/Wikimedia
Respiratory System
The respiratory system consists of the airways, the lungs, and the respiratory muscles that mediate the movement of air into and out of the body.
Image by LadyofHats
Lung Function - Lung Volumes and Capacities
Video by Armando Hasudungan/YouTube
Types of Lung Function Tests
A man undergoing whole body plethysmography
Image by Finchbook01 (talk)
Blood circulation: Red = oxygenated (arteries), Blue = deoxygenated (veins)
Oximetry - Blood circulation: Red = oxygenated (arteries), Blue = deoxygenated (veins)
Image by User:Sansculotte
Lung Function test for COPD
A modern USB spirometer
Image by AME
Lung Volume Testing by Plethysmography
Video by Launceston Lung Centre/YouTube
Pulmonary Function Tests (PFT): Lesson 3 - Lung Volumes
Video by Strong Medicine/YouTube
5 facts about DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis)
Video by Comprehensive Bleeding Disorders Center/YouTube
About Thrombosis: Symptoms and risk factors for deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
Video by Thrombosis Adviser/YouTube
How A Pulmonary FunctionTest Works
Video by LivingHealthyChicago/YouTube
Body Plethysmography Chamber
Joe Mabel/Wikimedia
Lung Volumes Measurement by Body Plethysmography
Cosmed/Wikimedia
Respiratory System
LadyofHats
8:31
Lung Function - Lung Volumes and Capacities
Armando Hasudungan/YouTube
Types of Lung Function Tests
Finchbook01 (talk)
Blood circulation: Red = oxygenated (arteries), Blue = deoxygenated (veins)
User:Sansculotte
Lung Function test for COPD
AME
3:03
Lung Volume Testing by Plethysmography
Launceston Lung Centre/YouTube
12:11
Pulmonary Function Tests (PFT): Lesson 3 - Lung Volumes
Strong Medicine/YouTube
2:28
5 facts about DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis)
Comprehensive Bleeding Disorders Center/YouTube
1:27
About Thrombosis: Symptoms and risk factors for deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
Thrombosis Adviser/YouTube
3:11
How A Pulmonary FunctionTest Works
LivingHealthyChicago/YouTube
Stress Tests
Stress Tests
Also called: Cardiac Stress Test, Cardiac Diagnostic Test
Stress tests shows how well your heart works when it's pumping hard. They can find problems with blood flow to your heart muscle and other heart conditions. Reduced blood flow can be a sign of a serious heart disease.
Stress Tests
Also called: Cardiac Stress Test, Cardiac Diagnostic Test
Stress tests shows how well your heart works when it's pumping hard. They can find problems with blood flow to your heart muscle and other heart conditions. Reduced blood flow can be a sign of a serious heart disease.
Stress tests show how well your heart works when it's pumping hard. Some heart diseases are easier to find when your heart is working its hardest to pump blood through your body. So stress tests check your heart while you exercise on a treadmill or stationary bicycle. If you're not able to exercise, medicine can be used to make your heart work harder , as if you were exercising.
There are different types of stress tests. They all check:
Blood flow in your heart
Your blood pressure
The rate and rhythm of your heartbeat
The strength of the electrical signals that control your heartbeat
Some stress tests also take pictures of your heart at rest and when it's working hard. The pictures provide more detail about how your heart is working.
Stress tests are most often used to find the cause of symptoms that may be from a heart problem.
The tests can help diagnose certain heart conditions, including:
Coronary artery disease (CAD)
Angina
Arrhythmia
Heart failure
Heart valve diseases
Cardiomyopathy
Stress testing is also used:
To find out how serious a known heart condition is, including the chance that you'll have a heart attack in the future.
To help make treatment decisions for a heart condition.
You may need a stress test if you have symptoms that could be from a heart condition. Symptoms may include:
Chest pain or discomfort without a known cause
Shortness of breath
Irregular or rapid heartbeat that may feel like a fluttering in your chest
Feeling dizzy or lightheaded
You may also need a stress test to check your heart health if you:
Have a heart condition with new or worsening symptoms.
Are going to have surgery. Your health care provider may want to see if your heart is strong enough for the operation.
Are being treated for heart disease. The test can show how much treatment is helping, including heart surgery.
Have a high risk for heart disease. Your risk may be higher than normal if you have a family history of heart disease and/or certain conditions, such as diabetes, that are linked to heart disease.
Plan to start an exercise program. If you have a heart condition or a high risk for a heart condition, a stress test can show what level of exercise is safe for you. (Always talk with your provider before starting any strenuous, new exercise.)
Stress tests may be done with or without imaging (pictures of your heart). The most common type of test is an exercise stress test. It doesn't include pictures. But the main steps of an exercise stress test are part of all stress tests:
You'll have a blood pressure cuff on your arm to check your blood pressure.
Electrodes will be placed on your body for an electrocardiogram test (also called EKG or ECG). Electrodes are small sensors that stick to your skin. Wires connect the electrodes to a computer or an EKG machine that records the electrical activity in your heart during the stress test.
If you're unable to exercise: An intravenous (IV) line will be inserted into a vein in your arm. You'll get medicine through the IV. The medicine will make your heart work harder for 10 to 20 minutes while an EKG records your heart's electrical activity. Medicine can be used instead of exercise for all types of stress tests.
If you can exercise: You'll walk on a treadmill or ride a stationary bicycle. On a treadmill, the speed will slowly increase. The treadmill may also tilt so you feel like you're walking uphill. On a bicycle, the resistance will slowly increase, so it's harder to pedal.
You'll exercise for about 10 to 15 minutes until you reach a target heart rate based on your age and fitness level. But you may stop the test sooner if:
You develop chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, fatigue or other symptoms
The EKG shows a problem with your heart
After all types of stress tests, you'll be monitored for 10-15 minutes or until your heart rate returns to normal.
Stress tests with pictures include stress echocardiograms, nuclear stress tests, and cardiac (heart) MRI stress tests. These tests have extra steps:
A stress echocardiogram or "echo" takes moving pictures of your heart using doppler ultrasound. The pictures show the size and shape of your heart and blood flow through your heart. Pictures will be taken before and after your heart has worked its hardest. You'll lie on your left side on a table as a provider moves an ultrasound device on your chest. If you exercise on a bicycle, the second set of pictures may be taken while you're pedaling.
A nuclear stress test takes pictures of your heart using a small amount of a radioactive substance called a "tracer" and a special camera that scans your heart. A provider injects the tracer into your bloodstream through an IV line that's placed in a vein. Your heart and blood vessels absorb the tracer, which makes them show up more clearly in the pictures.
Pictures are taken while you lie on a table before and after your heart has worked its hardest. After the test, the tracer naturally leaves your body in your urine (pee). Drinking lots of water will help remove it faster.
A cardiac MRI stress test takes the most detailed pictures of your heart using radio waves, magnets, and a computer. It is a newer test that's mostly used for very serious heart problems. For an MRI stress test:
A provider may inject dye into your bloodstream through an IV line placed in your arm. Some cardiac MRIs, but not all, use dye to help show very small details on the pictures.
Pictures of your heart may be taken before and after your heart has worked hard. To take the pictures, you'll lie on a table that slides into a large, tunnel-like MRI machine. You'll hear loud sounds as the machine takes pictures. If you're exercising for the test, you may use a treadmill near the MRI, or you may exercise while lying in the MRI machine using special devices to move your arms or legs.
Wear comfortable shoes and clothing for exercise. Your provider will tell you what else to do before a stress test. You'll usually need to fast (not eat or drink) and stop smoking for at least a few hours before the test. You may need to avoid drinks with caffeine, such as coffee, tea, and colas, for a longer period of time.
If you take medicines or supplements, ask your provider if you should take them as usual. Don't stop taking any medicine unless your provider tells you to. If your test uses MRI, tell your provider about any metal you have in your body. An MRI can heat certain metal and cause burns.
Stress tests are usually safe. You will be closely watched during the test. If a problem develops, you'll be treated quickly. Medicines that make your heart work harder sometimes cause symptoms such as chest pain, dizziness, or nausea. An IV may bruise your arm.
The tracers and dyes used in nuclear and MRI stress tests may cause an allergic reaction, but this is rare. If you are or could become pregnant or are breastfeeding, talk with your provider before you have these tests.
A normal test result means no blood flow problems were found. Your heart is working well.
If your test result was not normal, it may mean you have heart disease. Ask your provider to explain what condition you may have. You may need more tests to find out how serious your condition is.
Stress Tests: MedlinePlus Medical Test [accessed on Mar 09, 2023]
Exercise Tolerance Test
Exercise Tolerance Test
Also called: Treadmill Stress Testing, Exercise Stress Test, Cardiopulmonary Exercise Test, CPX Test
Exercise tolerance testing is a form of cardiac stress testing that uses treadmill exercise with electrocardiogram (EKG) and blood pressure monitoring. The test is used to determine a patient’s functional capacity, assess the probability and extent of coronary artery disease (CAD) as well as assess risks, prognosis and effects of therapy.
Exercise Tolerance Test
Also called: Treadmill Stress Testing, Exercise Stress Test, Cardiopulmonary Exercise Test, CPX Test
Exercise tolerance testing is a form of cardiac stress testing that uses treadmill exercise with electrocardiogram (EKG) and blood pressure monitoring. The test is used to determine a patient’s functional capacity, assess the probability and extent of coronary artery disease (CAD) as well as assess risks, prognosis and effects of therapy.
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Use the slider below to see how your results affect your
health.
Your result is Negative.
A normal test is when the blood pressure and heart rate increase appropriately to graded exercise. Some normal physiologic and EKG changes may occur during exercise.
Related conditions
Fatigue, dyspnea, diaphoresis, flushing
Incremental increase in blood pressure and heart rate
Minor EKG changes
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-11
5
Your result is Low risk.
Low risk (score > 5) indicates a 5-year survival of 97%. No need for further investigation with coronary angiography.
Related conditions
This test allows your doctor to learn how your heart reacts to exercise. As you walk on the treadmill, an EKG (electrocardiogram) will check your heart’s electrical activity. The EKG may show if your heart lacks blood flow or has abnormal heartbeats during exercise. The stress test also helps your doctor decide if you need further tests to evaluate your heart.
Before the test begins, your nurse or doctor will explain it to you. Feel free to ask questions and voice concerns at this time. When you understand what will happen, you will be asked to sign a consent for the test to be performed.
To monitor your heart during exercise, adhesive patches, called electrodes, will be put on your chest. Your chest will be cleansed with alcohol and shaved in some areas (if necessary) before these electrodes are placed.
You will be asked about symptoms you have had with exercise in the past. Describe, as completely as you can, any chest discomfort, breathing problems, lightheadedness or dizziness, fluttering in the chest, weakness, fatigue, or anything else you think may be relevant. Also, mention anything you feel while you are being prepared for the test.
A nurse or doctor will be with you throughout the test. Your heart rate and rhythm and your blood pressure will be checked during the test.
Generally, the treadmill’s pace and incline will increase every 3 minutes. It is important that you describe anything you feel as you exercise. If you become short of breath, the nurse may ask you to rate it as “mild,” “moderate,” or “severe.” If you have chest discomfort, you will be asked to describe it as best you can and rate it on a scale of 1 to 10 (1 is very mild; 10 is very severe). There is no right or wrong number. This helps your doctor know how you are doing and gives us a better way to compare how you feel before and after the test.
Keep walking until you are told to stop or until you cannot walk any longer. Let the nurse know when you need to slow down. Keep walk-ing as the treadmill slows. Do not jump off.
While you rest, your heart will continue to be monitored.
Inform the doctor or nurse about any temporary or permanent condition that could affect your ability to move, walk, bear weight, or keep your balance. If possible, discuss this when you are first scheduled for the test. It is also important that the doctor and/or nurse conducting the test have this information.
Carefully follow your doctor’s instructions about medications. Some medications should be stopped for 48 hours before the test; others should not be stopped. If you do not have clear instructions about all your medications (including those for your heart, blood pressure, or other medications), contact your doctor or nurse a few days before the test.
Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine 8 hours before the test. Do not eat 2 hours before the test, and do not drink liquids 1 hour before the test. If your exercise test is combined with heart imaging (such as a thallium scan), follow the specific instructions for that test.
Try to be as well rested as possible. You may need to reschedule the test if you feel unwell (for example, if you have a cold). If you do not feel you can give your maximum exercise effort, contact your nurse or doctor before the test.
Wear loose, comfortable clothing with a separate top and bottom. Women should wear bras. Wear comfortable, flat shoes that will not slip off while you are walking.
After the procedure:
You can eat and drink as usual.
Depending on how you feel, you may go about your normal routine or take it easy if the test tired you.
Do not take a hot shower for at least an hour after the test. Your blood vessels expand with exercise and need time to return to normal. A hot shower may expand them more, causing low blood pressure and dizziness.
Procedures/Diagnostic Tests. Exercise tolerance test. National Institutes of Health Clinical Center. [accessed on Dec 11, 2018]
Vilcant V, Zeltser R. Treadmill Stress Testing. [Updated 2018 Oct 27]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2018 Jan-. [accessed on Dec 11, 2018]
Am Fam Physician. 2017 Sep 1;96(5):293-299. Exercise Stress Testing: Indications and Common Questions. Garner KK, Pomeroy W, Arnold JJ. [accessed on Dec 11, 2018]
Am Fam Physician. 1999 Jan 15;59(2):401-10. Ordering and understanding the exercise stress test. Darrow MD. [accessed on Dec 11, 2018]
Harvard Men's Health. Cardiac exercise stress testing: What it can and cannot tell you. [accessed on Dec 11, 2018]
Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."
Stress Echocardiography
Stress Echocardiography
Also called: Echocardiography Stress Test, Stress Echo
Stress echocardiography, or echo, is a test that uses sound waves to create moving pictures of your heart. A stress echo is done as part of a stress test. Some heart problems, such as coronary heart disease, are easier to diagnose when the heart is working hard and beating fast.
Stress Echocardiography
Also called: Echocardiography Stress Test, Stress Echo
Stress echocardiography, or echo, is a test that uses sound waves to create moving pictures of your heart. A stress echo is done as part of a stress test. Some heart problems, such as coronary heart disease, are easier to diagnose when the heart is working hard and beating fast.
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Use the slider below to see how your results affect your
health.
Your result is Normal.
A normal result means that blood flow through the coronary arteries is probably normal.
Related conditions
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007150.htm [accessed on Feb 23, 2022]
https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/stress-tests/ [accessed on Feb 23, 2022]
https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/echocardiography [accessed on Feb 23, 2022]
Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."
V/Q Scan
V/Q Scan
Also called: Lung VQ Scan, Lung Ventilation/Perfusion Scan, Nuclear Medicine V/Q Scan, Pulmonary Ventilation/Perfusion Scan, Ventilation/Perfusion Scan
A V/Q scan is an imaging test that uses a ventilation (V) scan to measure air flow in your lungs and a perfusion (Q) scan to see where blood flows in your lungs. It is most often used to check for a pulmonary embolism (PE), a life-threatening blockage of an artery in the lungs.
V/Q Scan
Also called: Lung VQ Scan, Lung Ventilation/Perfusion Scan, Nuclear Medicine V/Q Scan, Pulmonary Ventilation/Perfusion Scan, Ventilation/Perfusion Scan
A V/Q scan is an imaging test that uses a ventilation (V) scan to measure air flow in your lungs and a perfusion (Q) scan to see where blood flows in your lungs. It is most often used to check for a pulmonary embolism (PE), a life-threatening blockage of an artery in the lungs.
A V/Q scan consists of two imaging tests that look for certain lung problems. The tests are:
A ventilation scan, which measures how air moves in and out of your lungs
A perfusion scan, which measures circulation (how blood flows in the lungs)
The two scans may be done separately or together.
A V/Q scan uses a small amount of a radioactive substance called a tracer that helps look for disease in the body. The scans help diagnose different lung conditions, including a pulmonary embolism (PE). A PE is a life-threatening blockage in an artery in the lungs. It usually happens when a blood clot in another part of the body breaks loose and travels to the lungs.
A V/Q scan is most often used to check for a pulmonary embolism (PE). It may also be used to:
Find problems with blood flow in the lungs
Check lung function before lung surgery
Test lung function in people with certain lung diseases, such as COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), a disease that causes coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
You may need a V/Q scan if you have symptoms of a pulmonary embolism (PE). These include:
Trouble breathing
Chest pain
Coughing or coughing up blood
Rapid heartbeat
Many people with a PE don't have symptoms. But your provider may order a V/Q scan based on a physical exam and/or if you have certain risk factors. These include:
Family history of blood clots or PE
Long periods of inactivity that may be due to prolonged sitting (such as from long car trips or flights), bed rest or other reasons
Recent surgery
Obesity
Older age
Smoking
You may also be at higher risk if you have:
A clotting disorder
Cancer
Heart disease
Another lung disease, such as COPD
V/Q scans are usually performed in a radiology clinic or a hospital. You may be getting a ventilation scan or a perfusion scan, or you may get both scans. If you are getting both, one scan will be done right after the other.
For both types of scans:
You will lie very still on a special table while the scanner takes pictures of your lungs.
Before the scan, you will be given a substance called a radioactive tracer. The tracer sends out a form of energy called gamma rays. The rays are picked up by the scanner to create images of your lungs.
During a ventilation scan:
You will wear a face mask and breathe in a gas that contains the radioactive tracer
A health care provider will use the scanner to take pictures of your lungs while you are holding your breath.
Your provider will continue to take pictures while you breathe in the tracer gas for a few more minutes.
After the tracer gas has collected in your lungs, your provider will remove your face mask. As you breathe normally, the tracer will leave your lungs.
During a perfusion scan:
A health care provider will inject the radioactive tracer into your vein through an intravenous (IV) line.
The tracer will collect in the blood vessels of your lungs.
Your provider will use the scanner to take pictures of your lungs.
You will be moved into several positions during the test so the scanner can capture images of the lungs from different angles.
A chest x-ray is usually done before a V/Q scan.
There is very little exposure to radiation in a V/Q scan. Only a small amount of radioactive substance is used, and all of the radiation leaves the body within a few days.
While radiation exposure in a V/Q scan is safe for most adults, it can be harmful to an unborn baby. So be sure to tell your provider if you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant Also, tell your provider if you are breastfeeding, because the tracer may contaminate your breast milk.
You may have a little discomfort when the tracer is injected during a perfusion scan.
Allergic reactions to the tracer are rare and usually mild.
If your ventilation and/or perfusion scan results were not normal, it may mean you have a pulmonary embolism (PE) and will need medical treatment right away.
The scans may also show that you have a different condition affecting your lungs. These include:
COPD
Pneumonia
Heart failure
If you have questions about your results, talk to your health care provider.
If you are diagnosed with a pulmonary embolism (PE), your treatment may include medicines such as blood thinners, which help prevent clots from forming, or clot busters, which help dissolve clots quickly.
If the medicines don't work, or you have a very large clot, you may need a surgical procedure to prevent and/or remove the clots.
https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/vq-scan/ [accessed on Sep 27, 2021]
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003828.htm [accessed on Sep 27, 2021]
https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/lung-vq-scan [accessed on Sep 27, 2021]
https://radiopaedia.org/articles/vq-scan-2?lang=us [accessed on Sep 27, 2021]
Additional Materials (10)
Ischemia caused by Pulmonary Embolism
The most dangerous complication of deep vein thrombosis is pulmonary embolism, which occurs when a blood clot travels to the lungs and lodges in a pulmonary artery. The lungs are particularly vulnerable to emboli because blood must pass through the lung vessels every time it circulates. During an episode of pulmonary embolism, the lungs may be showered with multiple clots. The condition can be completely asymptomatic, or may cause chest pain, shortness of breath, tachycardia, or sudden death. In some cases, pulmonary emboli may be associated with localized destruction of lung tissue known as pulmonary infarction (pictured here).
Image by TheVisualMD
Flow and perfusion | Circulatory system physiology | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy
Video by khanacademymedicine/YouTube
livingwithph.ca - VQ Lung Scan
Video by PHA Canada/YouTube
Lung Perfusion
Video by Julie Bolin/YouTube
What Is a Lung Ventilation/Perfusion Scan?
Ventilation-perfusion scintigraphy in a woman taking oral contraceptives and valdecoxib with a pulmonary embolism. (A) After inhalation of 20.1 mCi of Xenon-133 gas, scintigraphic images were obtained in the posterior projection, showing uniform ventilation to lungs.. (B) After intravenous injection of 4.1 mCi of Technetium-99m-labeled macroaggregated albumin, scintigraphic images were obtained, shown here in the posterior projection. This and other views showed decreased activity in the following regions: apical segment of right upper lobe, anterior segment of right upper lobe, superior segment of right lower lobe, posterior basal segment of right lower lobe, anteromedial basal segment of left lower lobe, and lateral basal segment of left lower lobe.
Image by Westgate EJ, FitzGerald GA
Pulmonary Embolism
Although a thrombus may develop over an extended period of time, it can become potentially deadly in seconds when part of it breaks off as an embolus. Pulmonary emboli that originate in the deep leg veins travel up the vena cava, through the right chambers of the heart, and into the lungs. An estimated 600,000 cases of pulmonary embolism occur each year in the US, resulting in up to 200,000 deaths.
Image by TheVisualMD
What To Expect Before, During and After a Lung Ventilation/Perfusion Scan?
Ventilation-perfusion lung scan reveals bilateral ventilation and complete absence of perfusion in the left lung.
Image by Lal C, Barker J, Strange C
What Is Pulmonary Embolism?
The most dangerous complication of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is pulmonary embolism, which occurs when an embolism travels through the heart and into the lungs. There it lodges in an artery, typically where the artery forks, and blocks blood flow. The lungs are particularly vulnerable to embolisms because all the blood in the body passes through the lungs every time it circulates.
Image by TheVisualMD
Ventilation/perfusion scan
subFusion processing applied to a SPECT lung ventilation-perfusion scan.
Image by KieranMaher at English Wikibooks
Thorax with Muscle Involved in Respiration
3D visualization of an anterior view of the muscles involved in respiration. The primary job of the thorax is to promote movements necessary for breathing. Three muscles of the thorax assist in this function; the external intercostals, internal intercostals and diaphragm. The intercostals do the job of lifting the ribs up and pulling them outward, which in turn enlarges the lungs. As the lungs expand, the pressure inside them is reduced, and they suck in air. During extreme inhalation, the neck muscles also contract. During inhalation, the diaphragm contracts and pushes downward; during exhalation, it relaxes and is pushed up into a dome shape by the lower digestive organs, compressing the lungs. As pressure rises in the chest cavity, exhale occurs, pressure is equalized and the cycle restarts.
Image by TheVisualMD
Ischemia caused by Pulmonary Embolism
TheVisualMD
10:31
Flow and perfusion | Circulatory system physiology | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy
khanacademymedicine/YouTube
1:27
livingwithph.ca - VQ Lung Scan
PHA Canada/YouTube
6:41
Lung Perfusion
Julie Bolin/YouTube
What Is a Lung Ventilation/Perfusion Scan?
Westgate EJ, FitzGerald GA
Pulmonary Embolism
TheVisualMD
What To Expect Before, During and After a Lung Ventilation/Perfusion Scan?
Lal C, Barker J, Strange C
What Is Pulmonary Embolism?
TheVisualMD
Ventilation/perfusion scan
KieranMaher at English Wikibooks
Thorax with Muscle Involved in Respiration
TheVisualMD
Treatment
Healthy Heart Diet
Image by TheVisualMD
Healthy Heart Diet
A heart-healthy lifestyle includes a diet based on the principles of balance, variety and moderation in the consumption of fats. Fats are essential nutrients and critical building blocks. The type of fat in a diet, however, turns out to be even more important than the total amount; there are \"good\" fats and \"bad\" dietary fats, just as there are \"good\" and \"bad\" types of cholesterol in our bloodstream. Other keys to cardiovascular health and wellbeing: get aerobic exercise, don't smoke, and drink alcohol only in moderation.
Image by TheVisualMD
How Is Pulmonary Hypertension Treated?
If you are diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension, your doctor will determine your treatment plan based on the cause of disease, if it is known. There is usually no cure for pulmonary hypertension, but there are ways to keep your symptoms from getting worse. Your doctor will recommend the best management plan for you.
Healthy lifestyle changes
Depending on the cause of your pulmonary hypertension, your doctor may recommend healthy lifestyle changes.
Heart-healthy eating includes eating less salt, to lower blood pressure or cholesterol if high levels of these contributed to the cause of your pulmonary hypertension. Eating less salt will help control your body fluids and may improve heart function.
Physical activity that may be supervised through an exercise program such as pulmonary rehabilitation.
Medicine
Medicines to treat pulmonary hypertension may include:
Anticoagulation or blood thinners to prevent blood clots in people whose pulmonary hypertension is caused by chronic blood clots in the lungs. These thinners also can help some people who have pulmonary arterial hypertension, heart failure, or other risk factors for blood clots.
Digitalis or digoxin to control the rate blood is pumped throughout the body.
Vasodilator therapy to relax blood vessels and lower blood pressure in the pulmonary artery most affected in people who have pulmonary arterial hypertension. This includes calcium channel blockers such as nifedipine and diltiazem, as well as newer groups of medicines called endothelin receptor antagonists and phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors.
Procedures and therapies
Your doctor may recommend a procedure, surgery, or therapy to treat pulmonary hypertension.
Oxygen therapy if oxygen levels in the blood are too low.
Balloon atrial septostomy to decrease pressure in the right heart chambers and improve the output of the left heart and oxygenation of the blood. In this procedure, a small hole is made in the wall between the right and left atrium to allow blood to flow from the right to the left atrium.
Balloon pulmonary angioplasty to lower the blood pressure in your pulmonary artery and improve heart function in people who cannot have a pulmonary endarterectomy.
Pulmonary endarterectomy surgery to remove blood clots from the inside of the blood vessels of the lungs.
Treatments for other conditions
Your doctor may recommend medicines or procedures to treat the condition that is causing your pulmonary hypertension.
Blood pressure medicines such as angiotensin-converting enzymes inhibitors, beta blockers, or calcium channel blockers when left heart disease is the cause
Blood transfusions or hydroxyurea to treat sickle cell disease
Heart valve repair
Iron supplements to increase blood iron levels and improve anemia
Source: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
Additional Materials (6)
Pulmonary hypertension treatment | Respiratory system diseases | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy
Video by khanacademymedicine/YouTube
Eat Healthy
Eating a healthy diet can be an effective, and enjoyable, way to prevent cardiovascular and other disease. Good eating means focusing both on the foods you shouldn't eat and on the foods you should eat.
Image by TheVisualMD
Anticoagulation and thrombolysis | Health & Medicine | Khan Academy
Video by khanacademymedicine/YouTube
Watch: How Does Blood Pressure Medicine Work?– Healthfirst Healthy Living
Video by Healthfirst/YouTube
Medicating for High Blood Pressure (HBP #3)
Video by Healthguru/YouTube
Learn About Treatment for High Blood Pressure
Video by NHLBI/YouTube
7:09
Pulmonary hypertension treatment | Respiratory system diseases | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy
khanacademymedicine/YouTube
Eat Healthy
TheVisualMD
10:25
Anticoagulation and thrombolysis | Health & Medicine | Khan Academy
khanacademymedicine/YouTube
2:10
Watch: How Does Blood Pressure Medicine Work?– Healthfirst Healthy Living
Healthfirst/YouTube
3:20
Medicating for High Blood Pressure (HBP #3)
Healthguru/YouTube
1:55
Learn About Treatment for High Blood Pressure
NHLBI/YouTube
Medicines
Anticoagulants, Blood Thinners and Blood Flow
Image by TheVisualMD
Anticoagulants, Blood Thinners and Blood Flow
Anticoagulants, Blood Thinners and Blood Flow
Image by TheVisualMD
FDA-Approved Treatments for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
Treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is focused on managing the symptoms. Treatment options include different medications as well as surgery. Some people with PAH need extra oxygen. In the most severe cases, lung transplantation may be an option. Treatment options have been published in the medical literature.
Many drugs can be harmful to people with PAH. The following should be avoided: appetite suppressants, cocaine, amphetamines (and related compounds), low oxygen environments (such as high altitudes), and possibly estrogen compounds (oral contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy).
FDA-Approved Treatments
The medication(s) listed below have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as orphan products for treatment of this condition.
Riociguat(Brand name: Adempas) - Manufactured by Bayer HealthCare Pharmaceuticals, Inc. FDA-approved indication: Treatment of adults with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) WHO Group 1, to improve exercise capacity, WHO functional class and to delay clinical worsening.
Epoprostenol(Brand name: Flolan®) - Manufactured by Glaxo Wellcome Inc. FDA-approved indication: Long-term intravenous treatment of primary pulmonary hypertension in NYHA Class III and Class IV patients.
Ambrisentan(Brand name: Letairis®) - Manufactured by Gilead Colorado FDA-approved indication: Treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension (WHO group I) in patients with WHO class II or III symptoms to improve exercise capacity and delay clinical worsening
Macitentan(Brand name: Opsumit) - Manufactured by Actelion Pharmaceuticals Ltd FDA-approved indication: Treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH, WHO Group 1) to delay disease progression. Disease progression included: death, initiation of intravenous (IV) or subcutaneous prostanoids, or clinical worsening of PAH (decreased 6-minute walk distance, worsened PAH symptoms and need for additional PAH treatment). Opsumit also reduced hospitalization for PAH.
Treprostinil(Brand name: Remodulin®) - Manufactured by United Therapeutics Corp. FDA-approved indication: Treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension.
Bosentan(Brand name: Tracleer) - Manufactured by Actelion Life Sciences Ltd. FDA-approved indication: Treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension.
Selexipag(Brand name: Uptravi) - Manufactured by Actelion Ltd FDA-approved indication: For use of Uptravi (Selexipag) Tablets, 200, 400, 600, 800, 1000, 1200, 1400, and 1600 mcg for treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH, WHO Group I) to reduce the risks of disease progression and hospitalization for PAH.
Iloprost(Brand name: Ventavis) - Manufactured by CoTherix, Inc. FDA-approved indication: Treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension (WHO Group I) in patients with NYHA Class III or IV symptoms.
Source: Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD)
Additional Materials (1)
Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: Current Treatment Options
Video by CheckRare/YouTube
3:27
Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: Current Treatment Options
CheckRare/YouTube
Prevention
Types of Lung Function Tests
Image by Finchbook01 (talk)
Types of Lung Function Tests
A man undergoing whole body plethysmography
Image by Finchbook01 (talk)
Can You Prevent Pulmonary Hypertension?
Prevention is not always possible since the cause of pulmonary hypertension is not always clear. Your doctor may suggest a preventative screening if you have a known risk factor or medical condition that causes pulmonary hypertension. Your doctor may also recommend prevention strategies to help you lower your risk of developing pulmonary hypertension. Talk to your doctor about your risk factors and concerns to learn more.
Source: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
Additional Materials (2)
Testing for pulmonary hypertension
Video by Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust/YouTube
Pulmonary hypertension symptoms and causes | Respiratory system diseases | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy
Video by khanacademymedicine/YouTube
5:33
Testing for pulmonary hypertension
Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust/YouTube
6:57
Pulmonary hypertension symptoms and causes | Respiratory system diseases | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy
khanacademymedicine/YouTube
Living With
Severe pulmonary hypertension with correspondingly prominent pulmonary arteries.
Image by Hellerhoff
Severe pulmonary hypertension with correspondingly prominent pulmonary arteries.
Severe pulmonary hypertension with correspondingly prominent pulmonary arteries.
Image by Hellerhoff
Living With Pulmonary Hypertension
After you are diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension, it is important to follow your treatment plan, get regular care, and learn how to monitor your condition. Taking these steps can slow down the progression of the disease and may improve your condition. Your specific treatment plan will depend on the cause of your pulmonary hypertension, as well as how advanced it is.
How does pulmonary hypertension affect your health?
Pulmonary hypertension can get worse over time and lead to serious problems, including:
Anemia, which can cause your body to not get enough oxygen-rich blood
Arrhythmias, which are problems with the speed of your heartbeat
Blood clots in the pulmonary arteries.
Bleeding in the lungs
Heart failure
Liver damage
Pericardial effusion, which is a collection of fluid around the heart
Pregnancy complications that can be life-threatening for the mother and baby
Receive routine follow-up care
Your follow-up care may include recommendations such as these:
Participate in support groups, counseling, and education efforts that can help you manage the activities of daily living, experience a successful pregnancy, and generally improve the quality of your life.
Get the recommended vaccines, which often include a vaccine for pneumococcus and an influenza, or flu, shot every year at the start of flu season.
Monitor your condition
Talk to your doctor about new or concerning symptoms. People who have pulmonary hypertension may need regular tests. Your doctor may recommend the following to monitor your condition and treatment response:
Six-minute walk test to monitor your ability to exercise
Blood tests to check hemoglobin, iron, and electrolyte levels; kidney, liver, and thyroid function; your blood’s ability to clot; and signs of stress on the heart
Cardiac catheterization
Cardiac MRI to monitor your heart’s size and how well it is working
Chest X-ray
Echocardiography to monitor your heart’s size and how well it is working, and measure the pressure in your right heart chambers
Electrocardiogram to check for irregular heartbeats
Lung function tests to check for any change in your lung function
If your pulmonary hypertension is severe or does not respond to treatment, your doctor may talk to you about a lung transplant or a heart and lung transplant.
Prevent complications over your lifetime
To help prevent some of the complications of pulmonary hypertension, your doctor may recommend the following.
Make heart-healthy lifestyle changes such as heart-healthy eating if your pulmonary hypertension is due to heart failure from heart disease or high blood pressure.
Engage in regular physical activity. Before starting any exercise program, ask your doctor about what level of physical activity is right for you.
Avoid high altitudes when possible and discuss with your doctor any plans for air travel or visits to places at high altitude.
Talk to your doctor if you are planning to get pregnant, as there is an increased risk of pregnancy complications.
Treat other medical conditions, such as COPD, heart conditions, and sleep apnea.
Source: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
Additional Materials (2)
Human lungs
Figure A shows the location of the lungs and airways in the body. Figure B is a detailed view of the lung structures that childhood interstitial lung disease may affect, such as the bronchioles, neuroendocrine cells, alveoli, capillary network, surfactant, and interstitial space.
Image by National Heart Lung and Blood Institute
Laura's Story: Mayo Clinic Pulmonary Hypertension & Vascular Disease Center
Video by Mayo Clinic/YouTube
Human lungs
National Heart Lung and Blood Institute
4:00
Laura's Story: Mayo Clinic Pulmonary Hypertension & Vascular Disease Center
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Pulmonary Hypertension
Pulmonary hypertension occurs when the pressure in the blood vessels that carry blood from your heart to your lungs is higher than normal. It makes your heart work harder, which can lead to heart failure. Learn about causes, symptoms, prevention strategies, and treatment options.