Heart disease: Symptoms and diagnosis
Last reviewed: February 2011
Whether you've had chest pain—or care for someone who has—you need to recognize the symptoms of heart disease, and know about the tests used to diagnose it. However, which tests to have can be confusing, in part because doctors don't always agree on when each test is justified. Here's a concise guide that will help you ask the right questions and, if necessary, seek a second opinion.
Is it a heart attack?
Getting treated in the first hour after a heart attack can be the difference between life and death. Here's how to recognize
a heart attack, and what to do if you suspect one.
Get the right heart tests
Here's our guide to the tests that can help you and your doctor determine if your chest pain signals heart disease and, if
so, what to do about it.
Recognize and treat heart failure
Recent developments, including a new blood test, can help doctors diagnose this form of heart disease, which is on the rise.
