How to Diagnose Atherosclerosis
When plaque builds up on the lining of an artery, the resulting condition is known as atherosclerosis. This condition should be taken seriously, because as plaque builds up, blood flow becomes more and more restricted, which can have life-threating consequences.
- Difficulty:
- Moderately Challenging
Instructions
Things You'll Need
- CT scan
- Family medical history
- Resting heart rate test, stress test or EKG
- Coronary angiogram
-
Help Diagnose Atherosclerosis
-
1
Know the risk factors of atherosclerosis. The factors that put you at the highest risk of developing atherosclerosis include having diabetes, high LDL cholesterol, high blood pressure, anger management problems, too much stress, lack of exercise and heredity.
-
2
Watch out for chest pain. Sadly, atherosclerosis may have no symptoms until the plaque in the artery is so thick it causes a heart attack or stroke. However, in many cases a full blown heart attack will be preceded by bouts of discomfort or pain in the chest or arms.
-
3
Help your doctor diagnose atherosclerosis. You can do this by accurately cataloging your symptoms and preparing a detailed family medical history to determine if you are at greater risk due to heredity.
Undergo Tests to Diagnose Atherosclerosis
-
1
Test for coronary artery blockage with a coronary angiogram. Coronary angiography involves using a dye injected into the blood stream to pinpoint the location of plaque build up and blockage. The Healthcares.net website has useful information on the risks of an allergic reaction to this test (see Resources below).
-
2
Lie still for a CT scan. A CT scan uses x-rays to produce a map of your body. This can be helpful in determining the location and size of the blockage.
-
3
Try other tests such as a resting heart rate test, an exercise stress test or an EKG. Each of these tests is designed to monitor the heart under different circumstances and gauge its reaction to change. These tests can all be helpful when trying to diagnose atherosclerosis, as well as many other related heart problems.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
There are a few things you can do yourself to reduce your risk of heart disease. Quit smoking, drink alcohol only in small amounts, get plenty of exercise and eat a diet that is low in fat and cholesterol.
Be consistent about getting your annual physical. Since only a physician can accurately diagnose atherosclerosis, it's imperative you keep your yearly physical appointments to increase your chances of detecting this condition as soon as possible.
If you have a family history of heart disease and believe you may have atherosclerosis, have your doctor perform tests to diagnose the condition immediately. Early detection is essential for successful treatment.
