Blood tests
Blood tests can help doctors to tell if
you have a heart condition. Or, if you've already been
diagnosed with a heart condition, they can help monitor your
condition or the effects of your medicines.
Your doctor or nurse may ask you to have a blood
test.
The different types of blood tests you may have
include:
Cardiac enzyme tests
Including troponin tests and tests for other enzymes, to
help show if your heart muscle has been damaged
Full blood count (FBC)
This shows, for example, the level of haemoglobin in
your blood, or if there is an infection in your bloodstream
Thyroid function tests
If you are having palpitations, or have a very slow or fast
heart rate, this test can tell if you have an underactive or
overactive thyroid
BNP (B-type natriuretic peptides) tests
Used alongside other tests to help diagnose heart failure
U and Es test
Stands for 'urea and electrolytes'; to tell, for example,
if there is too much or too little sodium or potassium in your
blood.
