The following tests are considered as the primary tests to detect a heart attack. As mentioned above, the choice of these tests will depend on the condition of the patient, the symptoms and medical history.

1.Electrocardiogram – Abbreviated as ECG or EKG, this test is to measure the electrical activity of the heart. The test is performed by attaching electrodes on the chest, arms, and legs which are then connected to a machine. The test captures the timing and the strength of electrical signals in the heart. During this test, electricity is not passed through the body, but the signals are monitored. The ECG detects abnormal heart rhythms, possible heart muscle damage, and heart attacks that have occurred in the past.

2.Blood tests – These tests are conducted to confirm a heart attack by reading markers in the blood that indicate damage to heart muscle.  During heart muscle damage or injury, a specific protein, and a specific enzyme are released in the blood. The blood test detects the presence of this protein and enzyme to indicate if you have had a heart attack. When you make a general inquiry and information request about tests for heart attack, most hospitals give a quick explanation about these tests.

The different markers, such as protein/enzyme that are released during a heart attack include the following:

• Troponin – this is a protein that has typically very low levels in the blood in a person. During a heart attack when the muscle is damaged, this protein is released and results in elevated levels. Tests that indicate higher levels of Troponin offer confirmation of a heart attack.
• Creatine Kinase-MB (CK-MB) – this is another enzyme that helps understand muscle damage during a heart attack. The levels of this enzyme increase in the blood following damage to heart muscle, and blood tests with elevated levels confirm a heart attack.
• Myoglobin – this is also considered as an early indicator of heart muscle injury. However, it is not as specific as the protein troponin, and is therefore not the preferred test.
  
  

3.Chest X-ray – This imaging test is often carried out after the ECG and blood tests, and is not always the first test in a hospital. The purpose of the test is to capture an image of the heart, lungs, and blood vessels. This will help detect the size of the heart size, and build-up of fluid in the lungs. Additionally, this also captures other conditions and helps in understanding the reason behind reported symptoms during general inquiry and information.

4.Echocardiogram – this is another test that follows the usual initial tests. This involves the use of ultrasound waves to record a moving image of the heart. This helps to understand the functioning of the heart, and the movement of the heart’s walls. This also captures damage to the heart muscle.

The test involves the use of a transducer, that sends sound waves to the heart. The echoes of sound waves are captured as images for an interpretation of various parameters.

5.Other tests – In addition to the above, other tests include coronary angiography, cardiac MRI, CT coronary angiography and stress tests. These tests are more advanced in nature and are usually performed after the initial tests are conducted.