Artery disease is a silent killer that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a condition where the arteries that supply blood to the heart, brain, and other vital organs become narrowed or blocked due to a buildup of plaque.

The narrowing of the arteries restricts blood flow, causing chest pain, heart attacks, strokes, and even death.

The good news is that artery disease is preventable and can be detected early with a fast and easy artery test. This test is a non-invasive way to screen for arterial disease, allowing for early intervention and treatment.

Who Should Get Tested?

Everyone over the age of 40 should get tested for artery disease, especially if they have a family history of heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol.

Additionally, if you have a sedentary lifestyle, smoke, or are overweight, you are at higher risk and should get tested.

If you are experiencing any symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or numbness in your arms or legs, you should talk to your doctor about getting tested.

Types of Artery Tests

There are various types of tests available to screen for artery disease. The most common ones include:.

: Cholesterol Screening

Cholesterol screening is a simple blood test that measures the levels of HDL, LDL, and triglycerides in your blood. High levels of LDL and triglycerides can increase your risk of developing plaque in your arteries.

This test is typically performed during a routine physical exam and can be done by a nurse or doctor.

: Carotid Artery Ultrasound

A carotid artery ultrasound is an imaging test that uses sound waves to create images of the carotid arteries in your neck. These arteries supply blood to the brain.

This test is painless and non-invasive and can help detect blockages or narrowing in the arteries.

: Peripheral Arterial Disease Screening

A peripheral arterial disease (PAD) screening is a test that measures the blood flow in your legs and arms. A special device is placed on your skin, which measures the blood pressure in your arteries. This test is non-invasive and painless.

How to Prepare for an Artery Test?

Preparing for an artery test is simple and easy. Depending on the test, your doctor may ask you to fast for a certain period before the test. For example, if you are getting a cholesterol screening, you may be asked to fast for 12 hours before the test.

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For other tests, such as a carotid artery ultrasound or a PAD screening, there is no need to fast.

If you are taking any medications for high blood pressure, diabetes, or cholesterol, make sure you let your doctor know. These medications can affect the results of your test.

What Happens During an Artery Test?

The procedure for each test is different, but all tests are non-invasive and painless. Your doctor or nurse will explain the procedure to you before the test so that you know what to expect.

For a cholesterol screening, a nurse or doctor will take a small sample of blood from your arm using a needle. The blood is then sent to a lab for analysis. You can usually get the results within a few days.

For a carotid artery ultrasound, you will lie down on a table, and a technician will apply a special gel to your neck. The gel helps the sound waves travel through your skin.

A small device called a transducer is then placed on your neck and moved around to create images of your carotid arteries. The test usually takes about 30 minutes.

A PAD screening involves placing a blood pressure cuff on your ankle and arm and then measuring the blood flow in your legs and arms. The test is painless and takes about 20 minutes.

Understanding the Results

After your artery test, your doctor will discuss the results with you. The results of the test will determine whether you have arterial disease, and if so, the severity of the disease.

Depending on the results, your doctor may recommend further tests or treatment.

If you have arterial disease, it is essential to make lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, exercising regularly, and eating a healthy diet.

Your doctor may also prescribe medications such as blood thinners, cholesterol-lowering drugs, or blood pressure medications.

Conclusion

Getting tested for artery disease is quick and simple. Early detection and treatment can prevent serious health problems such as heart attacks, strokes, and kidney disease.

If you are over 40 or have risk factors for artery disease, talk to your doctor about getting tested.