Heart Screenings: Simple Tests, Powerful Insights

Let’s explore the various types of heart screenings and what they can tell us about our most vital organ.

Our hearts tirelessly pump life-giving blood throughout our bodies, but sometimes they need a check-up to ensure they’re running smoothly. That’s where heart screenings come in. Heart screenings assess your cardiac health, identify potential problems early and help you and your doctor make informed decisions.

"Heart screenings are foundational for proactive health. It's not just about addressing existing issues. Screenings are equally important for identifying potential problems early," said Mahbub Jamil, a cardiothoracic surgeon at Dignity Health. "Many are simple, non-invasive tests providing vital insights.”

Common Heart Screenings

Basic Health Check-Ups: Your First Line of Defense

Regular doctor's visits are the initial step in managing heart health.

• Blood Pressure: Measures the force of blood against artery walls. High blood pressure (hypertension) silently damages arteries, increasing heart attack and stroke risk.
• Cholesterol and Lipid Panel (Blood Test): Measures different blood fats, including LDL ("bad" cholesterol), HDL ("good" cholesterol) and triglycerides.
• Blood Glucose (Sugar) Test: Checks blood sugar levels. High levels indicate prediabetes or diabetes, both heart disease risk factors.

Electrical Activity Tests: Listening to Your Heart's Rhythm 

These screenings examine the electrical signals regulating your heartbeat.

• Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG): Records heart's electrical activity, detecting abnormal rhythms (e.g., Atrial Fibrillation), signs of heart attack and other issues.
• Stress Test (Exercise EKG): Monitors heart activity and blood pressure during exercise, determining heart's response to physical activity and detecting coronary artery blockages.
• Ambulatory EKG (Holter/Event Monitor): Worn for 24-48 hours or longer, it records the heart's electrical activity if you have intermittent symptoms like dizziness or palpitations.

Imaging Tests: Visualizing Your Heart's Structure and Function 

These provide detailed images of the heart and blood vessels.

• Echocardiogram (Echo): Uses sound waves to create moving images of your heart, showing size, shape and function of chambers and valves, detecting structural issues or blood clots.
• Cardiac Computed Tomography (CT) Scan: Uses X-rays for detailed cross-sectional images of the heart and vessels.
• Coronary Artery Calcium (CAC) Scoring/Heart Scan: A CT that measures calcified plaque in coronary arteries; higher scores indicate higher risk of future heart events.
• CT Angiography (CT Angio): Uses contrast dye to highlight arteries, detecting narrowing or blockages.
• Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): Uses magnetic fields and radio waves for highly detailed images of heart structure and function.

Procedures: When More Direct Assessment is Needed 

Advanced procedures may be necessary when initial screenings raise concerns.

• Cardiac Catheterization (Coronary Angiogram): A catheter is guided to the heart to inject dye and visualize coronary arteries via X-rays, identifying blockages.

When to Start and and Which Screenings Are Best for You

It’s always best to consult with your doctor based on your personal history and risk factors, but here are a few guidelines to keep in mind. 

• Basic screenings (blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar): Generally recommended starting in the 20s, or sooner with family history or risk factors.
• More comprehensive screenings: Often begin around age 40 for individuals with no risk factors.

To decide on the best heart screening for you consider: 

• Age and gender
• Family history
• Lifestyle factors
• Existing conditions (diabetes, high blood pressure/cholesterol)
• Symptoms

Ready for a Screening? Here’s Where to Go

Heart screenings are becoming more accessible:

• Primary Care Physician (PCP): Your first option for basic tests, referrals and managing care.
• Cardiologist: For known conditions, significant risk factors or symptoms, your PCP may refer you.
• Community Health Fairs and Wellness Programs: Often offer free or low-cost basic screenings.
• Workplace Wellness Programs: Many employers offer screenings.

The Takeaway: Be Proactive About Your Heart Health

Heart screenings are crucial preventive care, detecting issues early. Don't wait for symptoms; regular check-ups, a healthy lifestyle and appropriate screenings are key to managing your cardiovascular well-being.

The information provided in this article is intended for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment. Dignity Health does not endorse any specific treatments, procedures, or products mentioned in this article. The availability of specific services may vary by location. Contact your local Dignity Health facility for more information.