About heart tests

If you have heart problems, there will most likely be times during your care when you wonder, "Why are they doing this test or procedure to me?" That's an understandable and common question.
Tell your doctor if you have an allergy to X-ray contrast, iodine or shellfish.
Ask your doctor and other health care professionals questions. You'll notice that they ask you questions, too. Though it may seem like it should be easy to know exactly what is wrong with your heart, it isn't always that simple. Many heart problems have similar signs -- one can "disguise" itself as another. It can take time and some detective work to learn what is happening to you.

Diagnosing how well your heart and blood vessels work

Your health care team will begin diagnosing how well your heart and blood vessels are working by asking you questions about how you feel. Based on your initial (first) symptoms, specific tests may be ordered. Depending on the results from those interviews and tests, your doctor may order more tests.

Usually, you will first have the simplest test that might give a clear answer. If the diagnosis remains unknown, more complex testing may be ordered. Your health care team will share with you information about each test, as well as information about how to prepare before it and what to expect. Feel free to ask questions and talk about any concerns.

Why test results may take a long time to receive

It takes time to gather health data, evaluate it carefully, and compare it to previous health information about you. Your health care team will want all the data possible before they determine a diagnosis.

Test results can sometimes take time to receive, for a number of reasons. Tests may be sent to another site to be read by an expert or be sent to another professional for evaluation. Sometimes, several specialists may be consulted on the same test results.

It can be difficult to wait for results. If you feel especially concerned, call your health care team and talk with them.

Treatment options after diagnosis

Once your doctor has made a diagnosis of your heart problems, he or she will discuss treatment options with you. These may include: