The ECG monitors the heart's response to the stress of exercise to determine whether any specific areas of the heart muscle are not getting enough oxygen. Transesophageal echocardiography, in which a probe is inserted into the esophagus to produce ultrasound images of the heart as it beats. Another similar test involves inserting a small ultrasound probe in a small catheter into the blood vessels so cross-sectional images of the coronary arteries can be seen to measure the degree of blockage. Thallium or nuclear scanning uses radioactive isotopes that are injected into the blood stream. A special camera picks up the rays given off by these isotopes, while a computer is used to translate these signals into images of the heart as it beats.
Coronary angiography is the most accurate diagnostic test.
A thin tube or catheter is threaded through the blood vessels of the heart. A radiopaque dye is injected through the catheter, and X-rays are taken to determine if there is any blockage of the arteries that supply oxygen to the heart muscle. A. Depending on the location and severity of the problem, some coronary heart disease can be treated through a combination of drug therapy and lifestyle changes. In fact, research shows that aggressive diet changes, regular exercise, and stress management can reverse coronary disease in some people. Check with your doctor first, especially if you take another anticoagulant drug or have a history of gastrointestinal bleeding.