THE DIAGNOSTIC TOOLKIT

TREADMILL TESTS, ECGs AND EEGs ARE NOT THE ONLY DIAGNOSTIC TESTS AVAILABLE TO DETECT HEART ISSUES. THE TECH FOR PRIMARY DIAGNOSIS HAS UNDERGONE A SEA CHANGE. HERE ARE A FEW

BLOOD TESTS

C-reactive protein: An inflammatory protein, higher levels indicate higher risk of cardiac arrest

Plasma ceramides: Their detection has been linked to plaque build-up in the heart and taken to be a sign of blockage

Brain natriuretic peptides: A hormone often secreted to help ease pressure on a heart when it is experiencing problems pumping

Calcium scoring: Helps determine plaque build-up in the heart

Troponin T: Increased levels of the protein have been linked to increased risk

NON-INVASIVE TESTS

CT heart scan: An advanced CT angio scan can paint a 3D image of the heart in less than a third of a second. This helps show blockages, state of the arteries and other vital parameters of heart health

Echocardiography: Real-time monitoring of the heart using high frequency radio waves remains a crucial diagnostic tool

Experimental handheld devices: From smartphones to retina scanners, these use ECG to track your heart beat and can act as early warning signs of a problem

MINIMALLY INVASIVE TESTS

Transoesophageal Echocardiography: A probe inserted through the throat can detect blood clots or other blockages

Cardiac electrophysiology: A catheter is inserted into the heart muscle to detect any abnormalities