A heart attack is typically diagnosed based on a combination of symptoms, medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests. Diagnostic tests may include:
- Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) to measure the electrical activity of the heart.
- Blood tests to measure levels of cardiac enzymes (troponin) released into the bloodstream when heart muscle cells are damaged.
- Echocardiogram to evaluate the structure and function of the heart using ultrasound waves.
- Coronary angiography to visualize blockages in the coronary arteries using dye and X-rays.