Heart Health Tests for People Living with Diabetes
People living with diabetes have a higher risk (PDF) of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD). That's why your healthcare team may suggest one or more tests to check how well your heart is working. These tests can help find problems early and guide your care.
Not everyone needs every test. Your healthcare professional will recommend tests based on your symptoms, medical history and overall risk.
Non-invasive tests
Non-invasive tests do not require anything to be placed inside your body. These tests are commonly used and are usually quick and painless.
- Electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG): This test measures the electrical signals in your heart. Each heartbeat happens because an electrical signal (or “wave”) travels through the heart and causes it to squeeze and pump blood. This test can show heart rhythm problems or signs of past or current heart strain. Learn more about electrocardiograms.
- Echocardiogram (echo): This test uses sound waves (ultrasound) to create moving pictures of your heart. During the test, you lie still while a technician moves a small device over your chest. The images show how well your heart pumps, how thick the heart muscle is and how the heart valves and chambers move. This test is safe and painless. Learn more about echocardiograms.
- Exercise stress test: This test shows how your heart works when you are active. You may walk on a treadmill or pedal a stationary bike while your heart rate and rhythm are monitored. This test can show if blood flow to the heart is lowered during activity and help your healthcare team understand what level of exercise is safe for you. Learn more about exercise stress tests.
Invasive tests
Invasive tests involve placing something inside the body, such as a special dye or small instruments. These tests are usually done when additional information is needed.
- Nuclear stress test: This test uses a small amount of radioactive material to create images of blood flow to your heart muscle. The images are taken while you exercise or after receiving medication that makes your heart work harder. This test helps show how well blood flows to the heart and areas of the heart that may not be getting enough blood. Learn more about nuclear stress tests.
- Coronary angiogram: his test checks for narrowed or blocked heart arteries. During the test, a special dye is injected into the bloodstream. X-ray images show how blood moves through the arteries that supply the heart. This test helps your healthcare team see if arteries are blocked, count how many blockages are present and understand how severe the blockages are. Learn more about coronary angiograms (PDF).
These tests are tools your healthcare team uses to protect your heart health. They can help guide treatment decisions and lower the risk of serious heart problems. If your healthcare professional recommends a heart test, feel free to ask why the test is needed, what it involves and what the results may show. Understanding your heart health is one important step in managing diabetes and caring for your overall well-being.
