Types of Heart Tests: Common Tests to Check Your Heart Health
Heart disease often develops without obvious symptoms, which is why regular heart health checks are so important. If you have a family history of heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol, your GP may recommend one or more tests to check your heart health. Understanding the different types of heart tests can help you know what to expect and why each test may be recommended.
Why You May Need a Heart Check Test
A heart check test can help detect potential problems before they become serious. Your GP may recommend testing if you experience symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, or heart palpitations. Even if you feel well, routine heart health assessments can identify risk factors early and support preventive care.
What Happens Before a Heart Test?
Before recommending any test to check your heart, your GP will discuss your medical history, current symptoms, family history, and lifestyle. A physical examination, including checking your blood pressure and heart rate, may also be performed.
This information helps determine which tests are most appropriate for your individual health needs.
Common Tests to Check Your Heart Health
There are several tests used to assess heart health, and each provides different information.
A blood pressure check can identify hypertension, while blood tests measure cholesterol, blood sugar, and other factors linked to cardiovascular disease. An electrocardiogram (ECG) records the heart’s electrical activity and can detect abnormal heart rhythms.
Your GP may also recommend an echocardiogram, which uses ultrasound to examine the heart’s structure and function, or an exercise stress test to see how your heart performs during physical activity. If ongoing monitoring is needed, a Holter monitor can record your heart rhythm over 24 to 48 hours.
Tests That Check for Plaque in the Arteries
Plaque is a build-up of fatty deposits inside the arteries that can reduce blood flow to the heart. In some cases, imaging tests may be recommended to check plaque in arteries and assess the risk of coronary artery disease.
These tests are usually considered for people with certain risk factors or symptoms rather than as part of routine screening.
What Is a Calcium Check for the Heart?
A calcium check for the heart, also known as a coronary artery calcium (CAC) scan, measures the amount of calcium in the coronary arteries. Calcium deposits can indicate the presence of plaque and help estimate the risk of future heart disease.
Your GP will determine whether a calcium check heart scan is appropriate based on your age, medical history, symptoms, and overall cardiovascular risk.
How to Prepare for a Heart Test
Preparation depends on the type of test being performed. Some tests require fasting, while others may involve avoiding caffeine or temporarily adjusting certain medications. If you are having an exercise stress test, wearing comfortable clothing and suitable footwear is usually recommended.
Your healthcare provider will explain any preparation needed before your appointment.
Understanding Your Test Results
Heart test results help your GP build a complete picture of your cardiovascular health. Normal results can provide reassurance, while abnormal findings may indicate the need for further investigation or ongoing monitoring. Not every abnormal result means you have heart disease, so it is important to discuss your results with your GP.
When Should You Book a Heart Health Check?
You should consider booking a heart health assessment if you experience persistent chest pain, shortness of breath, irregular heartbeats, dizziness, or unexplained fatigue. Regular heart checks are also recommended for people with high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, or a family history of cardiovascular disease.
At Willetton GP, we provide comprehensive heart health assessments and personalised care to help identify risk factors early. Whether you need routine screening or further investigation, our team is here to support your long-term heart health.
