There are several different types of tests and procedures that doctors can use to assess the health of your heart. The choice of which test to use depends on the specific information your doctor needs. Here are some of the main heart tests:

1. Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG): This test measures the electrical activity of your heart. It can help diagnose irregular heart rhythms, such as arrhythmias, and can provide information about previous heart attacks or other heart conditions.
2. Echocardiogram: This is an ultrasound test that uses sound waves to create images of the heart. It can provide information about the size and shape of the heart, how well it’s pumping, and the condition of the heart valves.
3. Stress Test: A stress test, often done on a treadmill or stationary bike, monitors your heart’s activity while you exercise. It helps evaluate how well your heart handles stress and can detect signs of coronary artery disease.
4. Cardiac Catheterization (Coronary Angiography): In this invasive procedure, a catheter is threaded through the blood vessels to the coronary arteries. Contrast dye is injected, and X-ray images are taken to assess blood flow and look for blockages in the coronary arteries.
5. Holter Monitor or Event Monitor: These are portable devices that record your heart’s electrical activity over an extended period. Holter monitors are worn for 24-48 hours, while event monitors are used for longer periods to capture irregular heart rhythms.
6. Cardiac MRI: This imaging technique uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the heart’s structure and function. It is particularly useful for assessing heart muscle damage, valve problems, and congenital heart defects.
7. CT Coronary Angiography: A CT scan with contrast dye is used to visualize the coronary arteries and assess for blockages or plaques.
8. Nuclear Stress Test: This test involves injecting a small amount of radioactive material into your bloodstream to track blood flow through the heart during rest and stress. It can help identify areas of reduced blood flow.
9. Blood Tests: Certain blood tests can provide information about heart health. For example, a lipid panel measures cholesterol levels, and cardiac biomarkers like troponin and creatine kinase are used to diagnose heart attacks.
10. Tilt Table Test: This test helps diagnose certain types of fainting spells and assesses how the heart responds to changes in position.
11. Electrophysiological Study (EPS): This invasive procedure evaluates the electrical system of the heart and helps diagnose and treat arrhythmias.
12. Chest X-ray: While it doesn’t directly show the heart, a chest X-ray can provide information about the size and shape of the heart and detect other issues like fluid buildup in the lungs.

These are some of the main tests and procedures used to assess heart health. The specific test(s) your doctor recommends will depend on your symptoms, medical history, and risk factors for heart disease. It’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine which test is most appropriate for your individual situation.