ECG — the heart's electrical picture
Takes 5 minutes. Stickers on your chest record the heart's electrical activity. It shows rhythm problems, signs of an old or ongoing heart attack and heart strain. No preparation needed.
ECHO — an ultrasound of the heart
Takes 15–30 minutes. Shows how strongly your heart pumps, whether the valves open and close properly, and whether there are holes or fluid around the heart. Painless and radiation-free.
TMT — the stress test
Takes about 30 minutes in total. You walk on a treadmill while your ECG is monitored, to see whether reduced blood supply appears during effort. Wear walking shoes and eat lightly beforehand.
Angiogram — seeing the arteries directly
If the tests above suggest blocked arteries, a coronary angiogram gives a precise map of the blockages. It is done through the wrist under local anaesthesia, usually as a day-care or overnight procedure.
Which test do I need?
That depends on your symptoms and risk factors. Dr. Senthilnathan will recommend only the tests that will genuinely change your treatment — nothing more.
This article is for general awareness and does not replace personal medical advice. Please consult your cardiologist before changing any medicine. In an emergency, call 108.