How do you know if you have cardiovascular disease? These diagnostic tests can help your doctor evaluate your heart health so the most effective treatment methods can be prescribed. [Many of these pages will take you directly to the Heart & Vascular Institute Tests and Procedures web pages. Hit your browser's "Back" button to return to this page]
- Electrocardiograph tests : use the electrocardiogram to evaluate the electrical activity generated by the heart at rest and with activity.
- Nuclear Imaging : is a method of producing images by detecting radiation from different parts of the body after the administration of a radioactive tracer material.
- Ultrasound Tests : uses ultrasound, or high frequency sound wave, to create graphic images of the heart's structures, pumping action, and direction of blood flow.
- Radiographic Tests: use x-ray machines or very high tech machines (CT, MRI) to create pictures of the internal structures of the chest
- Invasive Testing: involve inserting catheters into the blood vessels of the heart in order to get a closer look at the coronary arteries or to stimulate and test the electrical system of the heart.
- Blood Tests : include a number of blood tests used to diagnose and monitor treatment for heart disease. Learn more about:
© Copyright 2008 Cleveland Clinic. All rights reserved.