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Non-invasive Tests for Coronary Disease

Several different methods enable physicians to diagnose coronary artery disease (CAD) without significant intrusion upon the body or discomfort to their patients.

  1. Significance

    • Electrocardiograms (ECG or EKG) record electrical activity in the heart while an echocardiogram provides an image via sound waves. "The sound waves are reflected by the heart walls and heart valves," according to the Atlanta Cardiology Group. (See References, below.)

    Function

    • These non-invasive tests for CAD allow physicians to inspect the heart for weakly-functioning areas. This offers an indication the organ may be receiving too little oxygen or has suffered heart attack damage.

    Types

    • Additional procedures that probe for CAD in a non-invasive manner include a stress test, typically on a treadmill or exercise bike. Additionally, medication may be utilized to simulate exercise while a nuclear stress test measures blood flow to the heart. Computed tomography (CT) scans and MRIs are also common tests.

    Potential

    • Research presented at The American Heart Association's Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis, and Vascular Biology Annual Conference in 2009 indicated that urine screening tests could show potential for detection of CAD.

    Prevention/Solution

    • Changes in lifestyle are crucial in the prevention and treatment of CAD. A healthy diet, exercise, and avoidance of tobacco smoke greatly improve one's ability to avoid or recover from CAD.

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