10 Heart Tests Your Doctor Might Order, and What They Mean
1-EKG (electrocardiogram): measures the electrical activity of the heart and can detect abnormalities such as irregular heartbeats.
2-Stress test: measures how well the heart functions during physical activity and can detect blockages in the heart's blood vessels.
3-Echocardiogram: uses sound waves to create a picture of the heart and can assess the heart's structure and function.
4-Holter monitor: a portable EKG device worn for 24-48 hours to track heart activity and detect irregular heartbeats.
5-Cardiac catheterization: a procedure that uses a thin tube to examine the inside of the heart and blood vessels.
6-Cardiac MRI uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of the heart.
7-Coronary angiogram: a special X-ray test that uses contrast dye to visualize the blood vessels of the heart.
8-Blood tests: measures levels of certain substances in the blood that can indicate heart diseases, such as cholesterol and troponin.
9-Cardiac CT uses X-ray technology and computer processing to create detailed images of the heart and blood vessels.
10-Cardiac PET: uses a small amount of radioactive material and a specialized camera to create detailed images of the heart and blood vessels.
