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When Should You Consider Getting an EKG at Urgent Care?

When Should You Consider Getting an EKG at Urgent Care?

An EKG (electrocardiogram) is a quick, non-invasive test that records the electrical activity of the heart. It is commonly used to assess symptoms like chest pain, palpitations, shortness of breath, or unexplained dizziness. By identifying irregular heart rhythms, signs of a heart attack, or other cardiac abnormalities, Dr. Usha Rani K. Reddy, M.D. can provide timely diagnoses and recommendations for further treatment. For more information, contact us. We have convenient locations to serve you in Bixby Knolls, Downtown Long Beach, and Paramount, CA.

When Should You Consider Getting an EKG at Urgent Care? | Reddy Urgent Care Near Me in Downtown Long Beach Bixby Knolls and Paramount CA
When Should You Consider Getting an EKG at Urgent Care? | Reddy Urgent Care Near Me in Downtown Long Beach Bixby Knolls and Paramount CA

Table of Contents:

Can you go to urgent care for an EKG?
What heart conditions can an EKG detect?
Can anxiety cause an abnormal EKG?
How much does it cost to do an EKG?

Can you go to urgent care for an EKG?


Yes, you can visit Reddy Urgent Care for an electrocardiogram (EKG), a non-invasive test that records the heart’s electrical activity. EKGs are crucial for diagnosing heart-related conditions like arrhythmias, heart disease, and heart attacks. We are well-equipped to perform EKGs, offering a convenient solution for individuals with heart-related symptoms, as long as the situation isn’t life-threatening and doesn’t necessitate an emergency room visit.

An EKG may be recommended if you experience symptoms such as:

• Chest pain or discomfort
• Shortness of breath
• Palpitations or skipped heartbeats
• Lightheadedness or dizziness
• Syncope (fainting)

We provide EKGs to assist in diagnosing potential heart issues. While EKGs are valuable diagnostic tools, understanding their limitations and recognizing when to seek emergency care is vital for ensuring prompt and appropriate medical treatment. By choosing Reddy Urgent Care, you can be assured of receiving professional and timely care for your heart health concerns.

What heart conditions can an EKG detect?


Electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG), plays a crucial role in evaluating the electrical activity of the heart. This non-invasive and painless test is instrumental in diagnosing a wide range of heart conditions that may affect our patients’ health.

An EKG is utilized to detect arrhythmias, which are irregular heartbeats that can manifest as tachycardia (too fast), bradycardia (too slow), or erratic rhythms. Conditions such as atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, and ventricular arrhythmias can be effectively identified, allowing us to provide timely interventions.

Our team also uses EKGs to diagnose coronary artery disease (CAD), where compromised blood flow due to blocked or narrowed arteries can lead to serious heart issues. By identifying signs of poor blood flow, angina, past myocardial infarctions, or current ischemia, we can tailor treatment plans to address these concerns.

EKG is also vital for diagnosing heart failure and valve disorders, which can present with symptoms like shortness of breath and fatigue. Detecting cardiomyopathy, including hypertrophic or dilated forms, allows us to manage these conditions proactively.

For our younger patients, EKGs can reveal congenital heart defects, providing crucial insights into structural abnormalities such as septal defects or coarctation of the aorta. Additionally, we assess electrolyte imbalances and their impact on heart function and monitor the effects of medications and the performance of pacemakers.

Can anxiety cause an abnormal EKG?


Anxiety can have a profound effect on the cardiovascular system, often manifesting in changes that are detectable during an electrocardiogram (EKG). At Reddy Urgent Care, we understand the importance of accurately diagnosing and managing these changes to ensure your heart health is safeguarded.

An EKG is a vital tool that measures the heart’s electrical activity, revealing insights into heart rhythm and function. When anxiety strikes, especially in acute or severe forms, it triggers the body’s “fight or flight” response, releasing stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones can elevate heart rate and blood pressure, potentially influencing EKG results.

Common Anxiety-Induced EKG Changes:

Sinus tachycardia: Heart rate increases beyond 100 beats per minute.
ST-segment depression: Flattening or downward shift in the ST segment.
T-wave inversion: Reversal of the normal direction of the T wave.
Premature ventricular contractions or arrhythmias: Irregular heartbeats.

These changes are often temporary and subside as anxiety levels decrease. However, it is crucial to differentiate these from changes caused by underlying heart conditions. At Reddy Urgent Care, our experienced medical team evaluates your symptoms, medical history, and additional test results to ensure an accurate diagnosis.

By effectively managing anxiety, we help reduce the likelihood of stress-induced changes in heart function. In rare instances where severe anxiety leads to significant heart rhythm disturbances, our medical team is equipped to provide the necessary intervention promptly.

How much does it cost to do an EKG?


An EKG is a non-invasive procedure that measures the heart’s electrical activity, aiding in the diagnosis and monitoring of heart rhythm disturbances and overall cardiac health. Understanding the cost factors associated with an EKG can help you plan accordingly:

1. Location and Facility: Conducting an EKG ensures you’re receiving quality care in a convenient setting. Unlike hospital settings where the cost can be higher, our urgent care centers offer competitive pricing, typically ranging from $50 to $200 for a standard EKG.

2. Type of EKG: We offer various types of EKGs, including resting and ambulatory EKGs. Our medical team will determine the most appropriate type based on your specific health needs, with costs varying accordingly.

3. Insurance Coverage: Reddy Urgent Care accepts a wide range of insurance plans, often covering EKGs if deemed medically necessary. Our administrative staff can assist you in verifying your insurance benefits to ensure you understand any potential out-of-pocket expenses like copayments or coinsurance. For uninsured patients, we offer competitive rates and flexible payment options to accommodate your financial situation.

4. Additional Expenses: If additional tests or consultations are required following your EKG, our team will discuss any associated costs upfront. We aim to provide transparent pricing and clear communication regarding any physician interpretation fees or follow-up care.

EKG testing is available at Redddy Urgent Care. For more information, contact us. We have convenient locations to serve you in Bixby Knolls, Downtown Long Beach, and Paramount, CA. We serve patients from Downtown Long Beach CA, Bixby Knolls Long Beach CA, Paramount CA, East Side CA, Los Altos CA and surrounding areas of California.

Urgent Care Clinic in Long Beach and Paramount, CA - Locations

Downtown Long Beach, CA

Bixby Knolls Long Beach, CA

Paramount, CA


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