Heart Check-Up: Which Tests Are Done and Who Should Get One?

Cardiovascular diseases are among the most common causes of death worldwide. Many of them can progress for a long time without causing any symptoms. That is why detecting risk factors early and having regular cardiology check-ups are among the most effective ways to protect your heart health.

Who should have a heart check-up?

Regular check-ups benefit everyone, but they are especially recommended for:

• Men over 40 and women after menopause
• People with high blood pressure, diabetes or high cholesterol
• Smokers
• People with a family history of early heart disease
• People who are overweight or lead an inactive lifestyle

If you have symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath or palpitations, see a doctor without waiting for a scheduled check-up. In case of sudden, severe chest pain, call emergency services immediately.

The main tests in a heart check-up

Cardiology examination

Your doctor evaluates your symptoms, risk factors and family history; your blood pressure is measured and a physical examination is carried out.

Blood tests

Cholesterol levels (LDL, HDL, triglycerides), blood sugar and other values your doctor considers necessary play an important role in assessing the risk of heart disease.

Electrocardiography (ECG)

A short, painless test that records the electrical activity of the heart. It provides information about rhythm disorders and signs of certain heart diseases.

Echocardiography (ECHO)

An ultrasound examination of the heart. It assesses the pumping strength of the heart muscle, the heart valves and the heart chambers.

Exercise stress test

Shows how your heart works during gradually increasing effort on a treadmill. It is used in particular to investigate symptoms caused by narrowed arteries.

Further tests when needed

Depending on the results of the first assessment, tests such as a Holter ECG, 24-hour blood pressure monitoring, CT coronary angiography or cardiac MRI may be requested.

How to prepare for a check-up

• You will usually be asked to fast for 8-12 hours before the blood tests.
• If an exercise test is planned, bring comfortable clothes and sports shoes.
• Bring a list of your medicines and the results of any previous tests.
• Ask your doctor whether any medicine should be paused before the tests; do not stop taking medicines on your own.

After the results

A cardiologist evaluates all test results together. If no problem is found, the date of your next check-up is set according to your age and risk profile. If a risk or a disease is detected, lifestyle advice, medication or further tests are planned.

How to protect your heart

• Stop smoking.
• Do at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise, such as brisk walking, on most days of the week.
• Choose a diet rich in vegetables, fruit and whole grains, with less salt and saturated fat.
• Keep track of your blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol levels.

At many hospitals in Turkey, cardiology check-up programs can usually be completed in a single day, which is a great convenience for patients coming from abroad. You can see our cardiology specialists below and browse all of our hospitals on our website.

This article is for general information only; always consult a physician for diagnosis and treatment decisions.