If you’re wondering “Am I Having a Heart Attack?”, you’re not alone. Many heart attack survivors have questions and wonder about the diagnostic procedures and medical care. Here are some tips for your visit. You may have a heart attack, but you aren’t sure what to expect during the test. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, get to a hospital as soon as possible.
CTA scan: A computerized tomography (CT) angiography is a test that can help determine the source of your chest pain. This test involves an injection of contrast dye that “lights up” in a picture. This image gives doctors a 3-D picture of your heart’s arteries. Depending on the type of pain you’re experiencing, your doctor may prescribe a heart attack test that can diagnose the cause of your chest pain.
ECG: Unlike an EKG, an ECG can diagnose whether you’re having a heart attack. This test can be done as quickly as 10 minutes after you arrive at the hospital. If you’re not sure if you’re having a heart attack, the ECG is your next step. If you’re not sure, call 9-1-1 and get checked out right away. It’s always better to catch a heart attack early on, because treatment is crucial to surviving it.
Blood tests can help diagnose a heart attack by measuring the amount of cardiac enzymes in your blood. Different levels of these enzymes indicate that your heart is suffering from a heart attack. They also help doctors determine the size and timing of the attack. This test may determine the severity of the damage to your heart and how effective treatment is in treating the problem. This test can be done right away if you experience any of these symptoms, but you should always make sure to get to the hospital as quickly as possible.
