5 Essential Lab Tests Required For Senior Citizens With Heart Problems

Senior citizens face quite a lot of problems. From arthritis to heart attack, everything is becoming common. One reason for it might be the drastic change is eating and other related habits. If you notice your grandfather getting tired son or feeling discomfort in the chest, it might be high time for a check-up. In my personal experience of having witnessed chronic heart problems in my family, I have understood that early diagnosis can add decades to one’s life; and lab tests are a crucial part of the diagnosis phase. There are several tests which can identify whether there exists a heart problem or not. To start with, a CBC test would be apt. It aids in the evaluation of a variety of diseases. Read more about: Senior Citizen Health Insurance For your convenience, I am going to mention 5 essential lab tests for senior citizens with heart problems.

1. Electrocardiogram

This test forms a part of regular check-ups. Electrodes are used to determine your heart’s activity. For older people, physicians tend to perform this test frequently. This helps the doctor to analyse whether the blood flow is normal or not. If not, he might prescribe his patient with treatment options or medicines.

2. Coronary artery calcium score test

A CT scan or computed tomography scan is performed by qualified personnel. This lets him know the amount of calcium-rich deposits in your arteries. If found in huge quantities, it is indicative of heart attack risks. It is essential for senior citizens to not miss their doctor’s appointments. They know in advance the problems their patients are about to face. This can save many from developing heart disease.

3. Stress test

This test is also called a nuclear cardiac stress test. It aids a doctor to conclude whether or not his patients’ heart is damaged. For senior citizens, this test is highly recommended. It is so because, with decreasing physical activity, the flow of blood into the heart might also decrease. This might affect the working of the heart. And thereby lead to serious complications. A tracer is fit inside the patient’s body. And an image of the same signifies whether or not everything is fine.

4. MRI test

Doctors suggest Magnetic Resonance Imaging test to all their old patients. This test reveals the heart’s structure. While doing so, it allows the doctor to investigate whether the heart is working well or not. Certain doctors make use of a special dye for making even the arteries visible.

5. Coronary angiogram

If your grandfather suffered a heart attack in the past, this test is for him. A tube is put somewhere in the arm or wrist of the patient. It is pushed forward so that it reaches inside the artery. X-ray is taken thereafter. The doctor will inform your grandfather if his artery is blocked. If yes, you need not panic. The doctor will let you know the treatment. Read more about: Senior Health Care Rider

In conclusion

These are just a handful of tests I saw several of my loved ones go through, in order to keep their health in check. Growing old has its disadvantages. Your grandfather or grandmother might start feeling irritated with everything. Or might not wish to partake in family functions. It becomes your responsibility to take care of them. Talk to them. Take them to the doctor. And if you feel that they might have a heart problem, get the above tests done. Read more about: Health Insurance Insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms, and conditions, please read sales brochure/policy wording carefully before concluding a sale.