Heart disease knows no gender or age. It can affect anyone, regardless of the era, and remains the leading cause of death. Some cases show no warning signs, so it’s crucial to have a heart checkup every year to ensure a long life, as we only have one heart.
Since heart disease is the leading cause of death globally, regular heart checkups can reduce the risk of early-onset diseases like coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol. It also allows us to make lifestyle changes that can improve our health.
If you begin to experience chest pain or shortness of breath even while resting, it’s a clear reason to get a heart checkup. Age, genetics, lifestyle habits, and the environment are all factors that can contribute to heart disease.
High blood pressure is found in 30-40% of the global population, and is one of the major causes of other serious conditions like heart failure or stroke. Blood pressure is measured with two values: systolic pressure (when the heart contracts) and diastolic pressure (when the heart relaxes).
Note: If systolic pressure is higher than 140 mmHg or diastolic pressure is 90 mmHg or more while at rest, you are at high risk for hypertension.
Read More: High blood pressure is a dangerous condition that can affect your life
An EKG (Electrocardiogram) checks the electrical signals of the heart with each heartbeat. Doctors use this test to diagnose irregular heart rhythms, heart enlargement, or coronary artery disease. This test is important for detecting abnormal heart function, and for the most effective diagnosis, it’s often combined with an echocardiogram.
The Exercise Stress Test (EST) monitors heart and lung function while exercising, alongside measuring oxygen consumption (VO2Max). It helps diagnose conditions like coronary artery disease, ischemic heart disease, or arrhythmia, making it ideal for athletes, the elderly, or anyone at risk of heart disease even without symptoms at rest.
An echocardiogram uses high-frequency sound waves to provide detailed, accurate images of the heart’s structure, pumping function, blood flow, and can detect tumors, infections, or valve problems. This test helps diagnose a variety of heart diseases, including heart failure or congenital heart defects.
This test uses a CT scan to detect the amount of calcium buildup in the arteries, which can indicate the risk of coronary artery disease and ischemic heart disease. It helps doctors identify the likelihood of blockages before they become serious and guides treatment options such as balloon angioplasty, stents, or bypass surgery.
Coronary angiography is often the final test when there is suspicion of coronary artery disease. A catheter is inserted into the bloodstream, and contrast dye is injected to highlight the coronary arteries, allowing doctors to see any blockages or narrowing that require treatment.
Some heart conditions may not show clear symptoms and can worsen without warning. A portable ECG monitor continuously records heart activity 24/7. This is useful for patients at risk of arrhythmias or strokes, but who have not yet shown symptoms.
We are here to care for you, ensuring peace of mind and balance in every beat of your heart. At the Heart Center of Ramkhamhaeng Hospital, we provide comprehensive heart health checkups using state-of-the-art technology, dedicated to your well-being.
Every moment of your life is valuable, and we're here to help you take care of your health, every step of the way.
