About-Cardio
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We provide our users the most up-to-date and accurate information on the treatment and prevention of cardio pathologies in accordance with current American and European clinical guidelines.
The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a licensed physician for diagnosis and treatment.
Tests to Check Heart Health
Introduction
Heart health is vital for overall well-being. Diagnosing heart conditions early can prevent serious complications. There are various tests available that help evaluate heart function.
Common Heart Tests
1. Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG)
- A simple and fast test measuring electrical activity of the heart.
- Used to detect arrhythmias, heart attacks, and structural abnormalities.
2. Echocardiogram
- Uses ultrasound waves to create images of the heart.
- Helps assess heart structure, valve function, and pumping efficiency.
3. Stress Test
- Evaluates how the heart performs under physical exertion.
- Conducted on a treadmill or with medication that stimulates heart activity.
4. Holter Monitor
- A portable ECG device worn for 24–48 hours to detect irregular heart rhythms.
5. Blood Tests (Cardiac Biomarkers)
- Include tests for Troponin, BNP (Brain Natriuretic Peptide), and cholesterol levels.
- Help diagnose heart attacks, heart failure, or high cardiovascular risk.
6. Coronary Angiography (Cardiac Catheterization)
- Uses contrast dye and X-rays to visualize coronary arteries.
- Detects blockages in heart arteries.
7. Cardiac MRI or CT Scan
- Provides detailed images of the heart and blood vessels.
- Useful for diagnosing structural defects, tumors, or inflammation.
8. Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI)
- Measures blood pressure in the legs to assess peripheral artery disease (PAD).
Conclusion
Regular heart check-ups help detect and manage heart diseases early. Your doctor will recommend specific tests based on symptoms and risk factors.
Source recommendations
1. American Heart Association Guidelines on Cardiovascular Health
- https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/fitness/fitness-basics/aha-recs-for-physical-activity-in-adults
- https://professional.heart.org/en/guidelines-and-statements
- https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/nutrition-basics/aha-diet-and-lifestyle-recommendations
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/cir.0000000000000678
- https://professional.heart.org/en/guidelines-statements
2. European Society of Cardiology Guidelines on Cardiac Investigation
- https://www.escardio.org/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29191938/
- https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31155643/
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/circulationaha.117.030437
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If you or your loved ones experience any of these symptoms, you should consult a doctor in time. Remember that self-medication can be dangerous, and timely diagnosis will preserve the quality and life expectancy.
The heart is an organ that does not know how to "keep silent" if something goes wrong. Chest pain, shortness of breath, swelling, dizziness, and rhythm disturbances are the symptoms that require our attention. The best prevention of heart disease is careful attention to your health, regular checkups with a doctor, and a healthy lifestyle. Take care of your heart, and it will serve you for many years!
Our advantages:
Best practices from USA, EU and Japan
Our answers to your questions are based on the clinical recommendations of countries with the most developed healthcare systems in the field of cardiology in the USA, the EU and Japan.
Always up-to-date information
On a daily basis, we monitor for you all new scientific research publications in leading scientific journals on medical issues of interest to you.
We monitor all innovations and changes in the field of cardiac disease treatment on a daily basis.
We monitor all innovations and changes in the field of cardiac disease treatment on a daily basis.
Get second opinion
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The most comprehensive and up-to-date collection of free cardiology materials
Our website contains the most comprehensive and up-to-date collection of free cardiology materials in your country.
Every 3-5 years, half of the scientific approaches to treatment in the field of cardiology are reviewed as a result of specialized scientific discoveries. With us, you don't have to wait these years to learn about the best ways to treat you and your loved ones.
Every 3-5 years, half of the scientific approaches to treatment in the field of cardiology are reviewed as a result of specialized scientific discoveries. With us, you don't have to wait these years to learn about the best ways to treat you and your loved ones.