Blood tests

What are blood tests?

In a blood test, we will collect a small amount of your blood and send the sample to a laboratory for analysis.

Blood tests are an effective way to rule out heart conditions. Blood can provide many clues about heart health and other organs within the body. They can detect abnormalities like infection, inflammation, or certain genetic conditions.

Blood tests for heart concerns

Many types of blood tests can be performed to help detect any heart or circulatory concerns. We’ll also perform blood tests if we prescribe you a new heart medication.

The most common blood tests are detailed below:

Blood sugar (HbA1c)/Glucose test

Blood sugar (glucose) is important to analyse because high blood sugar levels in the blood can indicate a series of health concerns.

High levels, particularly for a long time, can indicate diabetes. Diabetes can put you at risk of developing a heart condition due to increased sugar levels, causing high blood pressure and chronic inflammation. These circulatory issues can damage the heart muscle over time and cause more severe issues such as heart disease, stroke, or heart attack.

You have high blood sugar levels if your HbA1c is more than 48 mmol/mol or your fasting blood glucose is more than 11 mmol/L.

Urea and Electrolytes (UEs) test

UE tests assess the body’s essential electrolytes, such as sodium (salt), potassium, and magnesium, as well as kidney function. 

It is important to check your electrolyte levels, as levels that are too high or low can cause irregular heartbeats (arrhythmia).

This test also looks at urea levels. This protein is usually broken down in the kidneys, and high levels can indicate that you’re having issues. Kidney problems such as fatty kidney disease can lead to further heart issues such as heart disease.

Liver and thyroid function test

If the liver and thyroid do not function correctly, they can individually cause heart and circulatory issues that can lead to further complications.

When assessing liver health, we will look for the levels of certain substances made by the liver, such as bilirubin (a by-product of breaking down old red blood cells). We want to ensure levels are healthy, as those that are too high or low can indicate an issue. Liver problems can result in further complications with the heart, such as heart failure and narrowed arteries.

Checking the thyroid is essential. Thyroid hormones can help regulate the cardiovascular system, and if abnormal levels are found, this can cause symptoms such as heart palpitations or a slow heart rate. 

This test can diagnose whether your thyroid is underactive or overactive.

Cholesterol level and lipid profile

Knowing your cholesterol level is vital, as high cholesterol levels can put you at risk of developing further issues, such as heart disease, angina, or even a heart attack. When you have a cholesterol test, we look for levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) – also known as “bad” cholesterol – and high-density lipoprotein (HDL), or “good” cholesterol, to assess your risk.

Lipoprotein (a) (Lp(a)) is another protein that can increase your risk of heart disease, and it can be inherited. It comprises of apolipoprotein(a) (apo(a)) and apolipoprotein B (apoB). 

High levels of Lp(a) can put you at risk of developing heart disease because Lp(a) can build up in the walls of blood vessels and form plaques like LDL. High apoB numbers are also associated with an increased risk of heart disease. 

Depending on your situation, we may also test you for Lp(a) and apoB.

International Normalised Ratio (INR)

This test evaluates how long it takes for your blood to clot. You will need to have this test regularly if you take an anticoagulant (a medicine that prevents blood clots), such as warfarin.

Blood clots can be dangerous to the heart as they can block vessels and cause serious heart concerns such as a heart attack or stroke.

NT-pro B-type Natriuretic Peptide (BNP)

BNP and another heart-related hormone, atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), work together to dilate your veins and arteries.

High levels of NT- pro BNP can indicate heart failure, as high levels of BNP mean that there are complications with the pressure and fluid levels in your heart.

Side effects and safety during the procedure

Blood tests typically only require a small blood sample. Some people may feel faint or dizzy during or after having their blood taken or interacting with needles. If you’re dehydrated, you may be more prone to this, so drinking water before your test may help avoid this.

If you are afraid of needles, our team will ensure you feel comfortable for the test. Just let us know your concerns, and we will work together to ensure you are prepared.