Check Heart Health with a Blood Test: Key Markers to Know
How to Check Heart Health by Blood Test
Understanding your heart’s condition starts with the right blood work. While symptoms like chest pain or shortness of breath signal urgency, many heart issues develop silently—making routine screenings essential. Blood tests offer a reliable, non-invasive way to detect early warning signs and protect your long-term wellness.
Why Blood Tests Matter for Heart Health
Your blood carries vital clues about your cardiovascular system. Key biomarkers like LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and C-reactive protein (CRP) reveal inflammation, plaque buildup, and metabolic stress—all major contributors to heart disease. According to the American Heart Association’s 2024 guidelines, annual comprehensive lipid panels and CRP testing are recommended for adults over 40 or those with risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, or a family history of heart disease.
Primary and Supporting Blood Tests for Heart Health
To assess heart health thoroughly, several blood markers are routinely measured:
- **LDL Cholesterol (