What tests are required for coronary heart disease?

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a common and highly significant condition. After onset, patients typically experience angina pectoris and a decline in physical fitness, necessitating prompt medical intervention. So, what diagnostic tests are required for CAD?

Diagnostic Tests for Coronary Artery Disease

Patients with CAD require a series of examinations, including complete blood count (CBC), liver and kidney function tests, lipid profile, blood glucose measurement, serum electrolyte analysis, electrocardiogram (ECG), and color Doppler echocardiography. Instrument-based assessments—particularly ECG and color Doppler echocardiography—are essential. ECG can detect dynamic changes associated with myocardial ischemia, such as T-wave or ST-segment abnormalities. Color Doppler echocardiography helps identify the ischemic region by evaluating regional wall motion abnormalities. More precise imaging modalities include coronary CT angiography (CTA), which enables 3D reconstruction and visualization of the coronary arteries, and invasive coronary angiography, which uses contrast medium to delineate coronary arterial anatomy and blood flow.

Patients should adopt a low-salt, low-fat diet and strictly control blood pressure, blood glucose, and lipid levels. Smoking cessation and adequate rest constitute fundamental components of CAD management. In early-stage CAD—when symptoms are mild or nonspecific—drug therapy alone may suffice. Long-term oral administration of aspirin, statins, beta-blockers (e.g., metoprolol), and ACE inhibitors (ACEIs) or angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) can slow disease progression, reduce hospitalization rates, and improve prognosis. For patients presenting with typical angina, coronary angiography is indicated; depending on findings, percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with stent placement may be performed. In some cases—particularly with multivessel or left main disease—coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery may be necessary.

Patients should maintain a balanced, light diet, ensure sufficient rest, and avoid excessive physical exertion. We hope this information proves helpful to you.