5 Essential Heart Tests That Could Save Your Life, According to a Cardiologist
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Heart-related illnesses-ranging from heart attacks and arrhythmia to hypertension and heart failure-remain a major global health threat. According to the World Health Organization, cardiovascular diseases claim around 17.9 to 20 million lives annually, accounting for nearly a third of all deaths worldwide.
The most powerful defense? Awareness and early detection. By understanding your heart’s health now, you can take steps to prevent life-threatening complications later. Cardiologist Dr Dmitry Yaranov recently highlighted five key tests that every cardiologist trusts to spot problems before they become serious.
2. EchocardiogramThis ultrasound scan shows how well your heart pumps blood and checks for valve problems. Safe for most people, though in rare cases, a contrast dye might be used, carrying a small allergy risk.
You walk or run on a treadmill while your heart is monitored. It can reveal issues that only appear under exertion. Mild dizziness or shortness of breath may occur, and in very rare cases, it could trigger a heart attack.
Medical experts stress that these tests aren’t just diagnostic-they’re preventive tools. By catching warning signs early, they can save lives and reduce the risk of severe heart conditions. In heart health, timing is everything-and knowing your numbers today might just protect your tomorrow.
The most powerful defense? Awareness and early detection. By understanding your heart’s health now, you can take steps to prevent life-threatening complications later. Cardiologist Dr Dmitry Yaranov recently highlighted five key tests that every cardiologist trusts to spot problems before they become serious.
1. EKG (Electrocardiogram)
A simple, painless test that records your heart’s electrical activity. It’s completely safe and helps detect irregular heart rhythms and signs of previous heart attacks.2. EchocardiogramThis ultrasound scan shows how well your heart pumps blood and checks for valve problems. Safe for most people, though in rare cases, a contrast dye might be used, carrying a small allergy risk.
3. Stress Test
You walk or run on a treadmill while your heart is monitored. It can reveal issues that only appear under exertion. Mild dizziness or shortness of breath may occur, and in very rare cases, it could trigger a heart attack.4. Coronary Calcium Scan
A quick CT scan measures calcium buildup in your arteries, helping predict your risk of future heart disease. Involves minimal radiation exposure.5. Cardiac Catheterisation (Angiogram)
A thin tube is inserted into an artery to inject contrast dye and take X-ray images of the heart. While complications are uncommon, potential risks include bleeding, infection, or allergic reactions to the dye.Medical experts stress that these tests aren’t just diagnostic-they’re preventive tools. By catching warning signs early, they can save lives and reduce the risk of severe heart conditions. In heart health, timing is everything-and knowing your numbers today might just protect your tomorrow.
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