Heart disease is one of the top causes of death worldwide. Under such circumstances, early identification and preventive care are key to minimizing the possibility of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular complications. Patients often wonder what the best test is to check for heart health. Several diagnostic tests are available for the same; however, CT Coronary Angiography (CT Angiography) has been shown to be one of the most accurate and non-invasive tests that evaluates heart health and detects Heart Problems, particularly when symptoms are present and/or risk factors are high. In this article, we will discuss in detail various tests that can be used to assess heart health, including CT Coronary Angiography.
What is CT Coronary Angiography?
CT Angiography is an advanced imaging technique that uses CT (Computed Tomography) scans along with a contrast dye in order to view the arteries of the heart, which are the blood vessels that supply oxygen-rich blood to the heart. This is a non-invasive test that provides cross-sectional images of the heart and allows doctors to view problems such as blockages, narrowing, or any other abnormalities, if present, with complete precision and accuracy. Unlike traditional angiography, which involves the use of a catheter inserted into the body of the patient, this procedure is fairly quick, non-invasive, and safe.
What is CT Angiography used for?
CT Angiography is primarily used for the following purposes:
- Detecting coronary artery disease (CAD)
- Identifying blockages or narrowing in the coronary arteries
- Evaluation of chest pain or unexplained breathlessness
- Screening of high-risk patients for early signs of atherosclerosis
- Assessing stents or bypass grafts in previously treated patients
- Ruling out structural abnormalities of the heart or aorta
What are the other tests that are used to assess heart health?
While a CT Angiography is still one of the most advanced techniques to detect heart disease, it is a part of the larger tool kit. Some of the other important tests that might be helpful to assess the heart health of a patient include:
- Electrocardiogram (ECG): It detects irregular rhythms of the heart.
- Echocardiogram: It assesses heart function and valve integrity.
- Stress Test (TMT): It measures the performance of the heart under physical activity
- Blood Tests: Check for cholesterol, blood sugar, and cardiac enzymes
- Cardiac MRI or PET scans: Used for deeper structural and metabolic evaluation
It is of utmost importance for a patient to consult an experienced and trusted heart specialist in order to discuss and understand their specific condition better. Based on the specific symptoms and the individual case, it is up to the doctors to decide regarding the test which is the most appropriate requirement in order to have an idea of the heart health of the patient.
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