Heart failure, also known as congestive heart failure, occurs when the heart doesn’t pump blood as effectively as it should. This can lead to fluid buildup, shortness of breath, and other complications. While the condition is serious, early diagnosis and treatment can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Diagnosing heart failure isn’t based on a single test. Instead, doctors use a combination of medical history, physical exams, and diagnostic tests to assess heart function. Here’s what to expect if heart failure is suspected.
Common Tests to Diagnose Heart Failure
-
Electrocardiogram (EKG/ECG)
📊 What it does: Measures the heart’s electrical activity, checking for irregular rhythms or signs of a past heart attack.
🩺 What to expect: Small sensors (electrodes) are placed on your chest, arms, and legs. The test is painless and takes just a few minutes.
-
Chest X-ray
📷 What it does: Provides an image of your heart, lungs, and surrounding structures. It helps detect heart enlargement or fluid buildup in the lungs.
🩺 What to expect: You’ll stand in front of an X-ray machine while a technician takes images. The process is quick and noninvasive.
-
BNP Blood Test
🧪 What it does: Measures levels of B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP), a hormone that increases when the heart is under stress. High BNP levels may indicate heart failure.
🩺 What to expect: A simple blood draw from your arm, with results available within a day or two.
-
Echocardiogram (Echo)
🫀 What it does: Uses ultrasound waves to create a detailed image of the heart’s structure and movement, helping assess how well it pumps blood.
🩺 What to expect: A technician applies gel to your chest and moves a small device (transducer) over your skin to capture heart images. The test is painless and takes about 30-60 minutes.
-
Holter Monitor
📟 What it does: Records your heart’s electrical activity over 24-48 hours to detect irregular heartbeats.
🩺 What to expect: Small electrodes are attached to your chest and connected to a portable device that you wear while going about your daily activities.
-
Exercise Stress Test
🏃 What it does: Evaluates how your heart performs under stress, either through physical activity or medication that mimics exercise.
🩺 What to expect: You’ll walk on a treadmill or ride a stationary bike while connected to monitors. If you can’t exercise, you may receive a drug that increases your heart rate.
-
Breathing Tests
💨 What it does: Determines if lung issues are contributing to shortness of breath. Common tests include spirometry and peak flow tests.
🩺 What to expect: You’ll be asked to blow into a tube to measure lung function.
What Happens After Testing?
If initial tests suggest heart failure, your doctor may refer you to a specialist heart failure team for further evaluation. Early detection allows for better treatment options, helping to manage symptoms and improve heart function.
Take Charge of Your Heart Health
If you’re experiencing symptoms like shortness of breath, fatigue, or swelling in your legs, don’t ignore them. Early diagnosis and treatment can make a significant difference in your heart health and overall well-being.
Dr. Bobish
Dr. Bobish and her team’s goal is to help you reduce your risk of heart disease. Helping you to understand your risk factors and make healthful lifestyle changes.
Remember regardless of age or current state of health it is never too late to start protecting your heart. It is also never too soon and the sooner you act the better. Follow us on Facebook to see our latest post helping to keep you heart healthy. You can also explore all our articles that offer diet and exercise tips, recipes and information on procedures and heart disease.
Dr. Bobish and her team focus on preventative care and are here to support you. Alpine Cardiology provides patients with education as well as compassionate care and treatment. We are committed to keeping you healthy and heart smart! Request an appointment at 989-448-7002