Heart: 9 Medical Tests That Can Help Identify Heart Issues

Medical tests play a crucial role in detecting heart issues, often even before symptoms appear. Many heart conditions, such as blocked arteries, irregular heart rhythms, and structural defects, may not show obvious signs in the early stages. Diagnostic tests like blood tests, imaging scans, and stress assessments can reveal hidden risks, track heart function, and identify early damage. By uncovering abnormalities, these tests provide doctors with valuable insights to create personalised treatment or lifestyle plans, helping to protect overall heart health. Early detection through medical tests allows doctors and patients to take preventive measures before minor concerns turn into severe or life-threatening heart problems. Regular screenings also ensure that people with family history, diabetes, hypertension, or sedentary lifestyles are closely monitored, significantly improving the chances of prevention and long-term heart health. Keep reading as we share medical tests you can take today to identify heart issues.

Medical tests that can help you identify heart issues

1. Electrocardiogram

An ECG measures the electrical activity of the heart and helps detect irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias), past heart attacks, or signs of poor blood flow. It is often the first test doctors recommend when patients experience chest pain, palpitations, or fatigue. Quick and non-invasive, it can reveal whether the heart is beating too fast, too slow, or erratically, offering vital clues about heart health.

2. Echocardiogram

This test uses ultrasound waves to create images of the heart's structure and movement. It helps doctors evaluate the size of the heart chambers, the strength of the heart's pumping action, and whether the valves are working properly. Echocardiograms are especially useful for identifying conditions like heart valve disease, cardiomyopathy, or fluid buildup around the heart.

3. Stress test

A stress test (treadmill or exercise ECG) evaluates how the heart performs under physical exertion. Patients usually walk or run on a treadmill while their heart rate, blood pressure, and ECG are monitored. The test can reveal hidden problems with blood flow, which may not appear when the body is at rest, making it a valuable tool to uncover early coronary artery disease.

4. Coronary calcium score (CT scan)

This CT imaging test measures calcium deposits in the coronary arteries, which are a marker of plaque buildup and potential blockages. A higher calcium score indicates a greater risk of heart disease and can help predict the likelihood of future heart attacks. It is especially helpful for people with borderline risk factors, as it provides a clearer picture of their cardiovascular health.

5. Angiography

This invasive test involves injecting dye into the coronary arteries and taking X-ray images to see if any arteries are narrowed or blocked. Angiography provides detailed visualisation of blood flow and is often performed when other tests suggest significant coronary artery disease. It can also guide doctors in deciding whether stents or surgery are necessary.

6. Blood tests

Blood tests can detect risk factors such as high LDL cholesterol, low HDL cholesterol, and high triglycerides, which contribute to artery blockages. Specialised tests also check cardiac biomarkers like troponin, which indicate heart muscle damage. Regular blood tests provide a simple yet powerful way to monitor risks and prevent heart attacks.

7. Cardiac MRI

A cardiac MRI uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed 3D images of the heart. It can detect structural abnormalities, scarring of the heart tissue, and assess how well the heart pumps blood. This test is especially useful for diagnosing heart muscle diseases, congenital defects, and damage from heart attacks.

8. CT coronary angiography

Unlike invasive angiography, this non-invasive CT scan provides detailed images of the coronary arteries after dye injection. It helps detect narrowing or blockages and is particularly useful for patients with chest pain but no clear diagnosis. It's less risky than traditional angiography and provides a fast, accurate picture of artery health.

9. ABI

The ABI (Ankle-Brachial Index) test compares blood pressure in the ankle and the arm to detect peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is linked to an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. A lower ankle pressure compared to arm pressure suggests narrowed arteries, signalling poor circulation and potential cardiovascular issues.

Take these tests timely to ensure early diagnosis, especially if your family has a history of heart diseases.

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