Diagnosis of Coronary Heart Disease
Diagnosis of coronary heart disease involves a combination of medical history evaluation, physical examination, blood tests, and advanced cardiac imaging. Since coronary heart disease can be silent in its early stages, routine screening and early detection are essential—especially in individuals with risk factors such as smoking, diabetes, or a family history of heart problems.
Medical History and Physical Examination
The diagnostic process usually starts with a thorough discussion about:
Symptoms such as chest pain, fatigue, or shortness of breath
Family history of cardiovascular conditions
Lifestyle habits including diet, exercise, smoking, and alcohol intake
Existing medical conditions like hypertension or diabetes
A physical examination may reveal:
High blood pressure
Irregular heartbeat
Swelling in the legs or ankles due to poor circulation
Blood Tests | Diagnosis of Coronary Heart Disease
Laboratory testing is used to assess risk and identify underlying contributors:
Cholesterol levels: High LDL cholesterol and low HDL cholesterol are significant indicators of atherosclerosis
Blood glucose: Elevated levels suggest diabetes or prediabetes
High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP): Indicates inflammation that may be associated with plaque formation
Electrocardiogram (ECG)
An ECG records the heart’s electrical activity and can detect irregular rhythms, previous heart attacks, or current damage to the heart muscle.
Exercise Stress Test
Also called a treadmill test, this involves monitoring the heart while exercising. It helps identify reduced blood flow to the heart during exertion, which may indicate blocked arteries.
Imaging Tests | Diagnosis of Coronary Heart Disease
Echocardiogram: Uses ultrasound to create images of the heart’s structure and assess its function
Coronary angiography: Involves injecting contrast dye into the coronary arteries and taking X-rays to identify blockages
CT coronary angiography: A non-invasive scan that provides detailed images of the arteries and can detect plaque build-up
Advanced Tests
In some cases, more detailed testing may include MRI, nuclear scans, or blood flow assessments.
In summary, diagnosis of coronary heart disease requires a multifaceted approach. Early detection allows for effective intervention to slow disease progression and reduce the risk of serious complications like heart attacks.
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