diagnosis
physical exam
The best way to diagnose myocarditis may be through an individual's own observation of his/her own symptons, followed by a thorough medical history checkup and physical examination conducted by a doctor. A physical checkup from the doctor is always the initial step to diagnosing any patient's medical conditions. With the help of the stethoscope, the doctor listens for the usual and rhythmic "lub" and "dub" sound made by the closing of the heart valves. If the doctor hears any irregularities in the rhythmic pattern of a patient's heartbeat, for example hearing a murmur sound in the heart, then the doctor can come to a conclusion that there is a problem with the patient's heart. This may be a sign to many diseases, including myocarditis.
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echocardiogram
An echocardiogram (also called an echo) is a type of ultrasound test that uses high-pitched sound waves via a transducer. The transducer picks up echoes of the sound waves as they bounce off the different regions of the heart. These echoes are then converted into moving pictures of the heart that can be seen on a video screen for the doctor. Through this, the size of the heart layers and chambers can be seen and be checked on whether they have become loose or narrow.
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electrocardiogram
cardiac catheterization
In this process, a tube, called a catheter, is inserted through an arm or leg to be guided towards the heart. Once it is safely inside in the appropriate region, it releases a dye which stains the patient's heart. Through this, X-rays of the heart's chambers and valves can be seen, and can be used to examine any abnormalities.
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