Special tests for heart failure

Your health care provider may want you to have one or more of the following tests.

Echocardiogram

This test shows your heart on a computer screen. Ultrasound waves bounce off your heart and create a picture on a computer screen. An echocardiogram tells how well your heart is pumping. It also shows if the heart is enlarged, if there are any valve problems, and how thick the heart walls are.

Electrocardiogarm

This test records the electrical impulses that travel through your heart. It is known as an ECG or EKG. You will have small pads (electrodes) placed on your chest, arms and legs. These pads are connected to some cables, which are connected to the ECG machine. The results of this test show the rhythm and rate of your heartbeat.

X-ray

This test involves taking pictures of your heart and lungs. These pictures show the size and shape of your heart and if there is any fluid in your lungs.

Lab tests

These tests are done by testing small amounts of blood and/or urine. The results can show if your kidneys or other organs are working well. You may have your cholesterol or blood glucose levels checked as well. Another lab test can check the levels of a hormone (BNP) that is made and released when your heart is overworked or stressed.

Stress test

This test measures how your hard your heart works during activity. The test may be done while you walk on a treadmill, ride a stationary bike, or you may also be given a medicine that stresses your heart. You may also have an echocardiogram or other imaging test done before and after the stress test. These tests show how your heart is responding.

Cardiac MRI (magnetic resonance imaging)

This test uses a large magnet, radiowaves and a computer to show a special image of your heart.

Holter monitor

This test can find an abnormal heart rate or rhythm. For this test, you wear a portable monitor connected to your chest with patches. The monitor records changes in your heart's rhythm over several hours or days.

Cardiac catheterization

This test can help find clogged blood vessels and a problems with your heart such as with pumping, heart chambers, blood flow or valves. X-ray dye is injected into your heart through a thin tube called a catheter. A special X-ray (angiogram) is taken of the blood vessels in your heart. Catheterization can be done to measure the pressure on the right side of your heart and lungs.