What is a heart checkup and how often should it be done?

**What is a heart checkup** **Heart Checkup** is a series of medical tests and examinations that are performed to check **heart health** and prevent **heart diseases**. The purpose of **heart checkup** is to identify early **heart problems** such as **high blood pressure**, **vascular congestion**, **arrhythmia**, or **heart failure** so that they can be controlled or treated before serious symptoms appear. ### **What does the heart check include?** Depending on the person's age, family history, and physical condition, some or all of the following may be done: 1. **Heart strip (ECG or EKG)** – to check the rhythm and electrical activity of the heart. 2. **Echocardiography (heart echo)** – to observe the structure and function of the heart. 3. **Blood test** – to check blood fat (cholesterol), blood sugar and inflammatory markers. 4. **Measuring blood pressure and heart rate** 5. **Exercise test (stress test)** - Check heart function during physical activity. 6. **CT scan or angiography in case of special need** **How often should a heart checkup be done?** Checkup time depends on each person's risk factors: Why is heart checkup important? - Early identification of problems before symptoms appear - Reducing the possibility of **heart attack** or brain - Help to adjust medications and lifestyle changes - Maintaining the quality of life in the long term If you have symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, palpitations, or unusual fatigue, you should see your doctor right away, even if it's not time for a checkup. ### **Essential examinations and tests for heart checkup** - **Blood pressure measurement** (every 6 months or according to the doctor's opinion) - **fasting blood sugar test** (yearly or every 3 months in case of diabetes) - **checking blood fat (cholesterol, triglyceride)** (1 time a year) - **Heart strip (ECG)** (in case of symptoms or as recommended by the doctor) - **Echocardiography (heart echo)** (if needed or over 40) - **Exercise test or stress test** (every 2 to 3 years for people at risk) - **CT angiography or normal angiography** (only if there is a special need) ### **lifestyle and additional recommendations** - Regular walking or exercise (at least 5 days a week, 30 minutes a day) - Low-salt, low-fat diet, rich in fruits and vegetables - Weight control (BMI below 25) - Quit smoking and alcohol - Stress control and adequate sleep