How to Reduce Heart Attack Risk? Cardiac Surgeon Explains 3 Important Tests

Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death around the world. Many times, heart problems develop slowly and quietly. A person may not feel any clear symptoms until the condition becomes serious. That is why doctors say that early testing and regular check-ups are very important, especially for people above the age of 40.

Heart surgeon Dr Devi Prasad Shetty says that before starting strong medicines or treatments, it is important to understand the real condition of the heart. There are a few simple and non-painful tests that can help show whether the heart is working normally or if any artery is starting to get blocked. Detecting problems early can prevent major trouble later.

Here are the three key tests that doctors commonly recommend to check heart health:

1. Electrocardiogram (ECG)
An ECG is a basic test that measures the electrical activity of the heart. Small patches are placed on the chest, arms, and legs. The machine then records how the heart beats.
This test helps doctors find issues like irregular heartbeat or signs of a previous heart problem. It is a simple and quick test that does not require any special preparation.

2. Echocardiogram (ECHO)
An ECHO is an ultrasound scan of the heart. It uses sound waves to create a moving picture. This test shows how well the heart pumps blood and whether the heart valves are working normally.
Doctors can also detect if the heart muscle is weak or thickened. This test helps understand the heart’s shape, size, and function more clearly.

3. Cardiac CT Angiogram and Calcium Score
These are imaging tests that help doctors see inside the heart’s arteries. They show whether cholesterol or calcium has started to build up in the blood vessels.
A CT Angiogram can show if any artery is becoming narrow, which can lead to a heart attack. A calcium score helps measure how much plaque is already present in the arteries.

Doctors advise that regular testing, a healthy diet, exercise, and avoiding smoking can together reduce the chances of heart disease. After the age of 40, even if there are no symptoms, it is a good idea to get these tests done to understand and protect heart health.