Diagnosis of Atherosclerosis
Atherosclerosis is often discovered during routine check-ups or while investigating symptoms like chest pain or leg cramps. Diagnosis of atherosclerosis involves blood tests, imaging, and sometimes specialised heart exams.
1. Medical History and Physical Examination
- Doctors assess symptoms, risk factors, and family history
- May detect weak pulses, abnormal sounds in arteries (bruits), or blood pressure differences
2. Blood Tests
- Lipid profile – Measures total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and triglycerides
- Blood sugar tests – To screen for diabetes
- Inflammatory markers – Like CRP (C-reactive protein)
3. Imaging Tests
a) Ultrasound (Doppler)
- Checks for blockages or reduced blood flow in arteries (e.g. neck or legs)
b) Electrocardiogram (ECG)
- Detects signs of a past or ongoing heart attack
c) Echocardiogram
- Uses sound waves to view heart function and blood flow
d) CT Angiography
- Visualises artery blockages and calcium deposits
e) Coronary Angiogram
- Invasive but accurate test for coronary artery disease
In South Africa, many of these tests are available in both private hospitals and state facilities, though advanced imaging may be limited in some rural settings.
Next, let’s look at how atherosclerosis is treated and managed.
👉 [Next: Treatment and Management of Atherosclerosis]
Complications of Atherosclerosis
