Cardiologist recommends 10 medical tests to detect heart disease risk: From echo to ECG

By Admin

25 Aug, 2025

Heart disease is becoming increasingly common and is no longer a condition limited to the elderly. Today, people of all ages are at risk. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of death globally, claiming nearly 17.9 million lives each year. Alarmingly, more than 80 percent of these deaths are caused by heart attacks and strokes, with many occurring prematurely in people under 70.

While adopting a healthy lifestyle, eating balanced meals, avoiding smoking, and limiting alcohol intake are essential for heart health, timely medical screening plays a vital role in preventing complications. Early risk assessment helps identify potential problems before they become life-threatening, allowing you to take the right steps for a healthier future.

Below are 10 essential medical tests recommended by cardiologists to diagnose or assess the risk of heart disease.

Physical exam and blood tests

Heart evaluation often begins with a physical exam. The doctor checks your pulse, blood pressure, listens to your heartbeat, and assesses family history. Blood tests then measure cholesterol, triglycerides, vitamins, minerals, and markers of heart muscle damage. Together, these give a clear picture of your heart’s baseline health.

Electrocardiogram (ECG)

A simple, painless test that records your heart’s electrical activity. Electrodes are attached to your chest and limbs, helping doctors detect irregular rhythms, signs of a past heart attack, or electrical abnormalities. According to cardiologist Dr Amit Bhushan Sharma, ECG provides critical information about the heart’s rhythm and activity.

Lipid profile

This test measures cholesterol and triglyceride levels in your blood. By analyzing LDL (bad cholesterol), HDL (good cholesterol), and triglycerides, it helps doctors assess your risk of artery blockages and heart disease. Based on results, lifestyle modifications or medicines may be prescribed.

Fasting blood sugar

Since diabetes significantly increases heart disease risk, checking blood sugar levels after fasting is vital. High fasting blood sugar may indicate insulin resistance or diabetes, allowing doctors to intervene early and protect your cardiovascular health.

Exercise stress test

This test monitors your ECG, heart rate, and blood pressure while you walk or run on a treadmill. It shows how your heart responds to physical stress and reveals issues like blockages or rhythm problems that might not appear at rest.

Echocardiogram (heart ultrasound)

Using sound waves, this test creates moving images of the heart, showing its size, pumping efficiency, and valve function. It helps detect heart failure, valve disorders, and muscle damage. Stress echocardiograms, conducted before and after exercise, can also reveal reduced blood supply to the heart muscles.

Coronary angiogram

An invasive but highly accurate test, a coronary angiogram involves inserting a thin catheter into your arteries and injecting dye visible on X-rays. It detects blockages or narrowing in coronary arteries and helps doctors decide if procedures like angioplasty or bypass surgery are needed.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

Cardiac MRI uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create detailed images of the heart. It is particularly helpful in assessing congenital defects, inflammation, or muscle damage when other tests are inconclusive.

Coronary computed tomography angiogram (CCTA)

A non-invasive CT scan that provides detailed images of coronary arteries. It is often used to rule out coronary artery disease in patients with unexplained chest pain.

Chest X-ray

Though less detailed than other tests, a chest X-ray is quick and effective in spotting an enlarged heart, fluid buildup, or valve issues. It helps diagnose heart failure and structural problems in emergencies.

Conclusion

These 10 tests together give a comprehensive overview of cardiovascular health. From simple blood tests to advanced imaging techniques, each plays a crucial role in detecting early signs of heart disease. Remember, early detection can save lives timely intervention through lifestyle changes, medications, or procedures ensures better outcomes and a healthier heart.

Taking charge of your heart health today could prevent life-threatening complications tomorrow. Regular screenings and timely medical advice are the keys to living longer and stronger.