Determining the cause of chest pain can aid in timely intervention and help address heart-related issues at their root. If chest pain is intense or persistent, you should visit a cardiologist to undergo diagnostic tests to check your heart. Here are some of the tests used to diagnose chest pain:
Echocardiogram Insights
An echocardiogram uses ultrasound waves to create images of the heart’s chambers and valves. The sounds bounce off the heart’s structures and are sent to a computer that converts them into pictures. A heart specialist interprets the images to check for valve defects, thickening of the heart walls, fluid in the sac around the heart, and other structural problems that can cause chest discomfort. Images also disclose heart rhythm irregularities that could contribute to pain. The information gained from an echocardiogram directs any further follow-up diagnostics.
Stress Tests
Stress testing evaluates how your heart performs when more blood and oxygen are required during increased levels of physical demands. A heart specialist may compare your heart’s electrical activity when exercising to identify conditions like coronary artery disease that can decrease blood flow to the heart muscle. Specialists can see if arteries appear capable of supplying enough oxygen to meet demands. This data may help form a diagnosis and guide the next steps in evaluation and treatment.
Blood Test Analysis
Blood tests can check for high levels of troponin, a protein released into the blood when cardiac muscle cells are damaged. Elevated troponin indicates a heart attack as the cause of chest discomfort. Blood tests also reveal other potential contributors, like thyroid problems. Detecting deficiencies or excesses in certain blood substances provides your cardiologist with more information on the factors that could be playing a role in your pain. Data from lab evaluations is checked alongside imaging tests that analyze blood markers.
Cardio Evaluation
A heart specialist evaluates findings from tests alongside lifestyle factors, other health conditions, surgeries, past procedures, injuries, and genetic predispositions to formulate an accurate diagnosis. Their goal is to discern whether cardiovascular dysfunction is the cause of your pain or if they need to adjust their testing plan. Gaining insight into other health actions should provide a complete picture of your heart health.
Diagnosis Imaging
Heart specialists may utilize computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans to gather more information about your heart. These imaging methods provide high-resolution views of the heart and blood vessels. Contrast dye highlights narrowing or blockages in the coronary arteries not visible on other imaging. Scans also reveal valve malformations, myocarditis, pericarditis, tumors, and more. Your heart specialist uses every angle possible from various imaging techniques to create a clear picture of what is going on within your body.
Consult Cardiologist Today
Diagnosing chest pain allows doctors to administer the targeted treatment that you need. Diagnostic tests available through cardiology services can help you get to the root of heart-related pain. Cardiologists may collaborate with other experts to check test results and form a treatment plan. Meet with a cardiologist today to find answers to the cause of your chest pain.
