In addition to the assessment conducted for Isla, there are other tests that can be done to help assess for cardiovascular disease. Examples of other assessments include:
Chest X-ray (CXR) – X–rays are used to generate images of tissues and structures inside the body. In this case, an X-ray of the chest area is relevant, which can produce images of the heart, lungs, airways, and ribs.
Electrocardiogram (ECG) – This is a test that records the electrical activity made by the heart, including heart rate and rhythm. It uses electrodes placed on the chest and limbs. An ECG can identify if there are irregularities of someone’s heart rhythm (known as an arrhythmia). Arrhythmia is an abnormal heart rhythm which can be irregular, fast, or slow. An ECG can help see if the heart has become enlarged or is working under strain. Electrocardiogram is necessary in the assessment of coronary heart disease (CHD) to show signs of the heart not getting enough blood to work properly (myocardial ischemia) and signs of a heart attack (myocardial infarction).
Echocardiogram – This is also known as a heart ultrasound, and it is an imaging test that uses an ultrasound to monitor the heart’s structure and function. It checks the heart’s structure and surrounding blood vessels and evaluates the pumping chambers of the heart. The conditions that an echocardiogram can help detect include: :
- Damage from a heart attack (myocardial infarction)
- Heart failure
- Birth defects that affect the heart working properly (known as congenital heart disease)
- Problems with the heart valves
- The heart walls have become thickened or enlarged (known as cardiomyopathy)
- An infection of the heart valves (known as endocarditis)
