One way to check for heart blockage is through a cardiac catheterization, also known as a cardiac cath or angiogram.
Understanding Cardiac Catheterization for Detecting Heart Blockages
Cardiac catheterization is a diagnostic procedure that allows doctors to visualize the coronary arteries and identify any blockages. Here's a breakdown:
- What it is: Cardiac catheterization, also called a cardiac cath or angiogram, uses X-rays taken in real time to create images of the coronary arteries.
- How it works: A thin, flexible tube called a catheter is inserted into a blood vessel (usually in the arm, groin, or neck) and guided to the heart. Dye is injected through the catheter, and X-ray images are taken as the dye moves through the coronary arteries. These images can reveal any narrowing or blockages.
- Location: This procedure is performed at a cardiac catheterization laboratory.
Other methods for checking heart blockage
While cardiac catheterization is a direct way to visualize blockages, there are other non-invasive tests that can help determine if you have a heart problem. These may include:
- Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG): Records the electrical activity of the heart.
- Echocardiogram: Uses ultrasound to create images of the heart.
- Stress test: Monitors heart function during exercise.
- CT angiography: Uses CT scans to create detailed images of the coronary arteries.
