When to repeat tests?

[erijon]

I’m just wondering if it’s necessary to repeat any of my previous tests yet. About me, had some minor chest pain in 2006, decided to go to the ER to get checked out. Everything was fine, turned out to be a bad gallbladder in the long run, but the ER doctor was pretty rough on me as I was very over weight, had elevated BP and no idea of my cholesterol or blood glucose numbers so he kept me overnight and put me through the usual work ups and tests, I think to open my eyes more than anything else. Until the gallbladder was diagnosed, I went through 3 years of tests. During that time I have had Nuclear stress tests in 2005 & 2006 and echos in 2005, 2006 & 2007, all tests have been normal as have MANY EKG’s since as part of my annual physicals.  Since that scare, I have started working out daily, lost 70 pounds and my blood pressure and cholesterol numbers have been controlled and brought down to well below normal levels. I am a 51 year old male, I have an excellent exercise tolerance with normal blood pressure and heart rate response, still need to lose 50 pounds but no other risk factors. I have had no symptoms of heart disease since my gallbladder was removed, overall feel pretty good.

I never got any feedback from my cardiologist about when to re-test if ever, was just told after going over the written report of my last echo with her that everything was normal and I did not need to return unless something changed (she was a great doctor over the three years I saw her, very helpful). When should I be thinking about repeating any of these tests? Again, I feel really good since changing my lifestyle, well worth it!

Thanks!

Jon

[Cleveland Clinic]

I would return if you start having symptoms of heart disease such as chest pain, shortness of breath, swelling of your legs, or worsening exercise capacity. In the meantime I am sure she told you to keep an eye on you blood pressure and cholesterol as well as weight, and if these are appropriately controlled then no need to retest.

[erijon]

Thanks!, I agree, I think that's what she was trying to say. As long as I can workout without symptoms and can continue the weight loss, I'll just wait.

Again, thxs!