Heart Failure Diagnosis: Key Tests and Indicators

Heart failure can be diagnosed through a combination of clinical evaluation, imaging techniques, and blood tests. As a common clinical syndrome, heart failure typically represents the end-stage manifestation of various cardiovascular diseases. The symptoms and organ damage associated with heart failure can vary depending on its progression stage, making diagnostic tools essential for accurate identification.

Common Diagnostic Methods for Heart Failure

One of the most effective and widely used diagnostic tools is echocardiography, or cardiac ultrasound. This non-invasive procedure provides detailed information about the structure of the heart chambers and ventricles, as well as functional parameters that reflect the heart's performance. It plays a crucial role in determining whether the heart is functioning below normal levels.

Understanding Ejection Fraction (EF)

Ejection fraction (EF) is a key functional metric used to assess heart health. In healthy individuals, the EF value should be at least 50%. When EF drops below this threshold, it indicates a reduction in the heart's ability to pump blood efficiently, which may suggest the presence of heart failure. Monitoring EF is vital for both diagnosis and ongoing management of the condition.

Blood Biomarkers for Heart Failure

In addition to imaging, blood tests are also critical in diagnosing heart failure. One of the most commonly used biomarkers is brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) or its precursor, N-terminal pro b-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP). Elevated levels of these biomarkers are strong indicators of heart failure. Conversely, if BNP and NT-proBNP levels remain within the normal range, heart failure is unlikely.

Symptoms That Warrant Further Investigation

Clinical symptoms such as shortness of breath during physical activity and swelling in the lower extremities (edema) should raise suspicion of heart failure. When these signs are present, further diagnostic testing is essential to confirm or rule out the condition. Early detection and accurate diagnosis are crucial for effective treatment planning and improving patient outcomes.