All Heart and Cardiovascular Tests

Heart and cardiovascular tests give you a clear picture of the factors that drive long-term risk and day-to-day symptoms. These labs evaluate cholesterol patterns and particle number, genetic lipoproteins, inflammation, blood-sugar control, kidney health, and cardiac-strain or injury markers.

Use this page to build a right-sized panel. Start with a standard lipid panel and A1c or fasting glucose, then refine risk with ApoB (particle number), lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] (genetic risk), and hs-CRP (low-grade inflammation). Add creatinine/eGFR and urine albumin-creatinine for vascular-kidney context. For symptoms of fluid overload, NT-proBNP/BNP helps; for urgent chest-pain evaluations, troponin is used.
These labs support screening, diagnostic work-ups, and monitoring, but they do not replace blood-pressure checks, ECGs, or imaging such as coronary artery calcium scans, echocardiography, or stress testing when indicated.

Signs, Symptoms & Related Situations

Prevention & baseline: family history of early heart attack or stroke; high LDL or triglycerides; diabetes/prediabetes; high blood pressure; chronic kidney disease; nicotine exposure.
Possible heart symptoms: chest pressure/tightness; breathlessness with activity or lying flat; ankle swelling; palpitations; reduced exercise tolerance.
Therapy & lifestyle checkpoints: limited response or intolerance to lipid-lowering therapy; starting a fitness or nutrition plan; weight-management programs.
Stroke & clotting context: TIA symptoms, atrial fibrillation, prior clotting or bleeding history (clinician-guided testing).
Urgent care now: new or crushing chest pain, severe breathlessness, fainting, one-sided weakness, or trouble speaking.

Why These Tests Matter

What testing can do

Refine risk beyond basic cholesterol using ApoB, Lp(a), and hs-CRP.
Clarify contributors to symptoms and safety (electrolytes, kidney function, anemia, thyroid).
Track trends after lifestyle changes or medication adjustments to confirm progress.

What testing cannot do

Diagnose blocked arteries or valve disease—imaging and ECGs are still required.
Replace blood-pressure control, rhythm evaluation, or emergency care for acute symptoms.
Predict events with certainty from a single number; context and trends matter most.

What These Tests Measure (at a glance)

Lipid Panel (TC, LDL-C, HDL-C, TG) & non-HDL-C: core cholesterol snapshot; non-HDL-C reflects all atherogenic cholesterol.
Apolipoprotein B (ApoB): counts all atherogenic particles (VLDL remnants, IDL, LDL, Lp(a)); helpful when triglycerides are high or LDL-C seems discordant with risk.
Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)]: genetically determined and largely lifelong; adds risk for coronary disease and calcific aortic valve disease.
LDL Particle Number/Size (LDL-P, subfractions): particle burden and distribution; particle number usually carries the most weight.
High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP): low-grade inflammation marker; interpret trends—illness and hard workouts can raise it temporarily.
A1c & Fasting Glucose (± Insulin): glycemic control and insulin-resistance context.
Kidney Markers: Creatinine/eGFR and urine albumin-creatinine (ACR); kidney health signals vascular risk.
NT-proBNP/BNP: peptides released with heart-wall stretch; aid in evaluating heart-failure physiology and tracking congestion.
High-sensitivity Troponin: detects acute heart-muscle injury; used for urgent, symptom-driven evaluations, not routine screening.
Contextual adds (as directed): ApoA-I, remnant cholesterol (RLP-C), Lp-PLA2, homocysteine, TSH, CBC, magnesium.

Quick Build Guide

Goal	Start with	Add if needed
General prevention	Lipid Panel • A1c/Glucose	non-HDL-C • hs-CRP
Strong family history	Lipid Panel • A1c	ApoB • Lp(a)
High TG / metabolic syndrome / diabetes	Lipid Panel • A1c	ApoB • LDL-P/subfractions • RLP-C • hs-CRP
CKD or hypertension	Lipid Panel • A1c	Urine ACR • eGFR • hs-CRP
Heart-failure signs	CMP/electrolytes	NT-proBNP/BNP • CBC • iron studies • TSH
Possible acute chest pain	(Labs don’t rule out MI)	Troponin per clinician + urgent evaluation
Stroke/TIA context	Lipids • A1c • CBC/CMP	ApoB • Lp(a) • PT/INR/aPTT (clinician-directed)

How the Testing Process Works

Choose your panel: begin with lipids + A1c/Glucose; add ApoB, Lp(a), and hs-CRP for a sharper risk picture.
Prepare for accuracy: follow any fasting instructions; schedule on a recovery day; keep supplements consistent unless your order lists holds (biotin can affect some assays).
Get your draw: visit a nearby patient service center; most results post within a few days.
Review with your clinician: combine labs with blood pressure, history, exam, ECGs, and imaging (e.g., coronary calcium or echocardiogram) when appropriate.
Track trends: repeat on a personalized cadence, especially after lifestyle or medication changes.

Interpreting Results (General Guidance)

LDL-C & non-HDL-C: lower values generally reduce risk; non-HDL-C captures all atherogenic cholesterol.
ApoB / LDL-P: higher numbers = more particles that can enter artery walls; particularly useful when LDL-C looks “fine” but risk is high.
Lp(a): treat elevated levels as added lifetime risk; values are largely genetic and stable.
hs-CRP: emphasize trends; retest after illness or tough training to avoid false spikes.
Kidney & glycemic markers: better glucose control and kidney health lower vascular risk.
NT-proBNP/BNP & Troponin: interpret with symptoms and clinician guidance; do not self-diagnose from a single result.
Always interpret results with a qualified healthcare professional.

Choosing Panels vs. Individual Tests

Starter set: Lipid Panel + non-HDL-C + A1c/Glucose
Risk refinement: ApoB + Lp(a) + hs-CRP (± LDL-P/subfractions)
Vascular-kidney context: Creatinine/eGFR + Urine ACR
Symptom-guided adds: NT-proBNP/BNP (fluid/strain) • Troponin (acute chest-pain pathway)
Additional context (clinician-directed): ApoA-I, RLP-C, Lp-PLA2, homocysteine, TSH, CBC

FAQs

Do I need to fast?
Follow your order. Many lipid tests can be non-fasting, but fasting is common and helpful when triglycerides run high.

If my LDL-C is normal, do I still need ApoB?
Possibly. ApoB can reveal high particle number even when LDL-C appears acceptable, especially with high triglycerides or strong family risk.

What is Lp(a)?
A genetic lipoprotein that increases lifetime risk for heart attack and calcific aortic valve disease; one measurement is often informative.

Does hs-CRP replace cholesterol testing?
No. It complements lipids by reflecting inflammation. Use it alongside cholesterol, glucose, and blood pressure.

Can exercise affect results?
Yes. Hard workouts and illness can temporarily raise hs-CRP and shift triglycerides. Aim for a recovery-day draw.

How often should I repeat testing?
Commonly every 3–12 months, depending on goals and therapy. Your clinician will tailor timing.

Related Categories & Key Tests

Heart & Cardiovascular Tests Hub
Cholesterol Tests • Cardio IQ Tests • Coronary Artery Disease Tests • Heart Attack Risk Tests • Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) Tests • High Blood Pressure Tests • Stroke Tests • Vasculitis Tests • Diabetes & Insulin Resistance • Kidney Health
Key Tests: Lipid Panel • non-HDL-C • ApoB • Lp(a) • LDL Particle Number/Size • hs-CRP • A1c/Glucose (± Insulin) • Creatinine/eGFR • Urine Albumin-Creatinine • NT-proBNP/BNP • Troponin • ApoA-I • RLP-C • Lp-PLA2 • TSH • CBC

References

American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association — Cholesterol and primary prevention guidelines.
National Lipid Association — Scientific statements on ApoB, Lp(a), and advanced lipoproteins.
European Atherosclerosis Society — Consensus on Lp(a).
AHA/CDC — Inflammation markers and cardiovascular risk resources.
KDIGO — Kidney disease and albumin-creatinine testing guidance.
Heart Failure Society of America — Biomarkers in heart failure and monitoring.

Available Tests & Panels

Your All Heart and Cardiovascular Tests menu is pre-populated in the Ulta Lab Tests system. Start with a core risk panel (lipids and A1c), add ApoB, Lp(a), and hs-CRP to refine risk, include kidney markers for vascular context, and use NT-proBNP/BNP or troponin when symptoms guide that choice. Follow any fasting/supplement instructions and review results with your clinician to personalize prevention and follow-up.

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Prothrombin (Factor II) 20210G->A Mutation Analysis

The Prothrombin (Factor II) 20210G→A Mutation Analysis Test detects a genetic variant in the prothrombin gene linked to increased risk of abnormal blood clotting. This mutation is associated with venous thromboembolism, deep vein thrombosis, and pulmonary embolism. Identifying this mutation helps evaluate inherited thrombophilia, supporting risk assessment, family studies, and management of clotting disorders.

Specimen Type: Blood

Collection: Blood Draw

$206.86
$168.95
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Prothrombin Time with INR Test

The Prothrombin Time with INR Test measures how long it takes blood to clot and calculates the international normalized ratio (INR) for accuracy. It is commonly used to monitor patients on blood-thinning medications like warfarin and to evaluate bleeding disorders, liver disease, or vitamin K deficiency. Doctors order this test to investigate easy bruising, frequent nosebleeds, or prolonged bleeding and to ensure safe and effective anticoagulant therapy.

Specimen Type: Blood

Collection: Blood Draw

Also Known As: PT with INR Test

$64.35
$23.95
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Renal Function Panel Test Most Popular

The Renal Function Panel Test measures blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine, sodium, potassium, chloride, carbon dioxide, calcium, phosphorus, albumin, and glucose to evaluate kidney health. Abnormal results may indicate kidney disease, dehydration, or metabolic imbalance. Doctors use this panel to monitor chronic kidney disease (CKD), assess electrolyte balance, and guide treatment decisions. It provides vital insight into renal function and overall metabolic health.

Specimen Type: Blood

Collection: Blood Draw

Also Known As: Kidney Panel Test, Kidney Function Panel Test

$87.34
$20.95
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Reticulocyte Count Test Most Popular

The Reticulocyte Count Test measures immature red blood cells (reticulocytes) to evaluate bone marrow function and red cell production. High levels may indicate blood loss, hemolytic anemia, or recovery from treatment, while low levels may suggest bone marrow failure, nutritional deficiencies, or chronic disease. Doctors use this test to assess anemia, monitor therapy, or track recovery. Results provide key insight into red blood cell health and overall hematologic function.

Specimen Type: Blood

Collection: Blood Draw

Also Known As: Retic Count Reticulocyte Percent Test, Reticulocyte Index Test, Corrected Reticulocyte Test, Reticulocyte Production Index Test, RPI Test

$66.80
$24.95
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Rheumatoid Factor Test Most Popular

The Rheumatoid Factor (RF) Test measures RF antibodies in blood to help diagnose rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune conditions. High RF levels may indicate rheumatoid arthritis, Sjögren’s syndrome, or other connective tissue diseases, though they can also appear in some infections. Doctors order this test to investigate joint pain, stiffness, or swelling. Results provide important insight into autoimmune activity, joint health, and inflammatory disease management.

Specimen Type: Blood

Collection: Blood Draw

Also Known As: RF Test, Rheumatoid Arthritis Factor Test

$66.91
$23.95
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Rheumatoid Factor IgA IgG IgM Antibodies Test

The Rheumatoid Factor IgA IgG IgM Antibodies Test measures multiple rheumatoid factor classes to aid in diagnosing rheumatoid arthritis and related autoimmune diseases. Elevated levels may suggest joint inflammation, Sjögren’s syndrome, lupus, or chronic infections. Doctors use this comprehensive test to confirm autoimmune involvement, investigate persistent pain or stiffness, and guide treatment planning by assessing disease activity across antibody types.

Also Known As: RF Antibodies Test, Rheumatoid Arthritis Factor Antibodies Test

$127.29
$111.95
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Rheumatoid Factor IgA Antibody Test

The Rheumatoid Factor IgA Antibody Test measures IgA-class rheumatoid factor, an autoantibody linked to rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune diseases. Elevated levels may indicate joint inflammation, Sjögren’s syndrome, or chronic infections. Doctors use this blood test alongside other markers to confirm diagnosis, assess disease activity, and guide treatment decisions for patients with suspected autoimmune or inflammatory disorders.

Specimen Type: Blood

Collection: Blood Draw

Also Known As: RF IgA Test, Rheumatoid Arthritis Factor IgA Antibody Test

$149.26
$38.95
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Rheumatoid Factor IgG Antibody Test

The Rheumatoid Factor IgG Antibody Test measures IgG-class rheumatoid factor, an autoantibody often linked to rheumatoid arthritis and autoimmune diseases. Elevated levels may indicate joint inflammation, Sjögren’s syndrome, or chronic infection. Doctors use this test with other markers to confirm diagnosis, assess autoimmune activity, and guide treatment for patients with persistent joint pain, swelling, or suspected inflammatory disorders.

Specimen Type: Blood

Collection: Blood Draw

Also Known As: RF IgG Test, Rheumatoid Arthritis Factor IgG Antibody Test

$149.26
$38.95
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Sed Rate Test Most Popular

The Sed Rate Test, also called the ESR Test, measures how quickly red blood cells settle in a sample of blood. A faster rate may signal inflammation caused by infections, autoimmune diseases, arthritis, or other chronic conditions. Doctors use this test to investigate unexplained fever, joint pain, or muscle aches, and to monitor inflammatory disorders such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis. The Sed Rate Test provides important insight into overall inflammatory activity.

Specimen Type: Blood

Collection: Blood Draw

Also Known As: Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate Test, ESR Test, Sedimentation Rate Test, Westergren Sedimentation Rate Test

$40.83
$23.95
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Selenium Micronutrient Blood Test

The Selenium Micronutrient Blood Test measures selenium levels in the blood to assess nutritional status and detect deficiencies or excess. Selenium is a powerful antioxidant that supports thyroid function, immune defense, and protection against oxidative stress. This test helps identify dietary insufficiency, malabsorption, or toxicity, supporting diagnosis and management of overall health and wellness.

Patient must be 18 years of age or older.

Specimen Type: Blood

Collection: Blood Draw

$65.95
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Selenium Test Most Popular

The Selenium Test measures selenium levels in blood to evaluate nutritional status and overall health. Selenium is essential for thyroid function, antioxidant defense, and immune support. Low levels may cause fatigue, muscle weakness, thyroid problems, or impaired immunity, while high levels may indicate toxicity. Doctors use this test to monitor nutrition, supplementation, or suspected deficiency. Results provide key insight into metabolic health and antioxidant balance.

Specimen Type: Blood

Collection: Blood Draw

$180.16
$58.95
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Selenium RBC Test

The Selenium RBC Test measures selenium levels inside red blood cells, providing a more accurate reflection of long-term selenium status than serum testing. Selenium is essential for antioxidant defense, thyroid function, and immune health. Abnormal results may indicate deficiency linked to fatigue, thyroid disorders, or poor immunity, or excess from supplementation. Doctors use this test to evaluate nutritional balance, guide treatment, and monitor metabolic health.

Specimen Type: Blood

Collection: Blood Draw

$225.20
$100.95
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Sodium Test

The Sodium Test measures sodium levels in the blood, an electrolyte essential for fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle activity. Abnormal sodium may indicate dehydration, kidney disease, adrenal disorders, or heart failure. Doctors use this test to investigate symptoms like confusion, weakness, or swelling and to monitor patients with chronic illnesses, diuretic use, or intravenous therapy, ensuring proper electrolyte and metabolic health.

Specimen Type: Blood

Collection: Blood Draw

Also Known As: Na Test, Sodium Serum Test

$58.78
$17.95
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T4 Total Test Most Popular

The T4 Total Test measures total thyroxine (T4) in blood, a combination of both bound and unbound (free) T4, to assess thyroid function. Abnormal levels may indicate hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, goiter, or pituitary disorders. Doctors use this test to evaluate symptoms like fatigue, weight changes, hair loss, or irregular heart rate and to monitor thyroid replacement or antithyroid therapy. The T4 Total Test provides key insight into metabolic, hormonal, and endocrine health.

Also Known As: Total T4 Test, Total Thyroxine Test, T4 Test, Bound and Unbound T4 Test

$114.53
$20.95
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Thalassemia and Hemoglobinopathy Comprehensive

Specimen Type: Varied

Collection: Phlebotomist

$1,300.95
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TMAO Test

The Trimethylamine N-Oxide (TMAO) Test measures TMAO levels in blood to assess cardiovascular and metabolic risk. TMAO is produced when gut bacteria metabolize nutrients like choline, carnitine, and betaine from foods such as red meat and eggs. Elevated levels are linked to heart disease, stroke, kidney dysfunction, and metabolic disorders. Doctors order this test to evaluate cardiovascular risk and guide lifestyle, diet, or treatment strategies.

Specimen Type: Blood

Collection: Blood Draw

Also Known As: Trimethylamine N-Oxide Test

$325.00
$48
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Total Glutathione Test

The Total Glutathione Test measures glutathione, a key antioxidant that protects cells from oxidative stress and supports liver detoxification, immune defense, and cellular repair. Low levels may indicate chronic illness, toxin exposure, poor nutrition, or high oxidative stress, while high levels may reflect supplementation. Doctors use this test to assess antioxidant capacity, monitor therapy, and guide treatment for overall metabolic and immune health.

Specimen Type: Blood

Collection: Blood Draw

$189.95
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Transferrin Test Most Popular

The Transferrin Test measures transferrin, a blood protein that transports iron, to evaluate iron status and nutritional health. High levels may suggest iron deficiency anemia, while low levels may indicate liver disease, malnutrition, or chronic illness. Doctors use this test alongside iron and TIBC to investigate fatigue, weakness, or anemia symptoms. Results provide vital insight into iron balance, red blood cell production, and overall metabolic function.

Specimen Type: Blood

Collection: Blood Draw

$114.52
$30.95
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Triglycerides Test

The Triglycerides Test measures triglyceride levels in blood to evaluate heart health and metabolic function. High levels may increase risk for cardiovascular disease, atherosclerosis, or pancreatitis, while low levels may reflect nutritional issues. Doctors use this test as part of lipid screening to assess patients with obesity, diabetes, or high cholesterol. Results provide vital insight into fat metabolism, cardiovascular risk, and overall wellness management.

Specimen Type: Blood

Collection: Blood Draw

Also Known As: TG Test, TRIG Test

$47.01
$20.95
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Troponin I Test

The Troponin I Test measures levels of cardiac troponin I in blood to help diagnose heart attack, myocardial injury, and acute coronary syndrome. Elevated levels indicate heart muscle damage from blocked arteries, inflammation, or other cardiac stress. Doctors order this test for patients with chest pain, shortness of breath, or suspected heart disease. Results provide critical insight for early detection, treatment decisions, and ongoing heart health monitoring.

Specimen Type: Blood

Collection: Blood Draw

Also Known As: TnI Test, cTnI Test, Cardiac Troponin Test

$249.00
$89.95
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TSH Test Most Popular

The Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) Test measures TSH levels in blood to assess thyroid function and diagnose hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. It evaluates how the thyroid controls metabolism, energy, weight, and heart rate. Doctors use the TSH test to investigate symptoms such as fatigue, hair loss, or mood changes. Frequently included in routine health exams, it is also key for monitoring thyroid disease treatment and overall endocrine balance.

Specimen Type: Blood

Collection: Blood Draw

Also Known As: Thyroid Stimulating Hormone Test, Thyrotropin Test

$143.54
$22.95
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Urea Nitrogen Test

The Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) Test measures urea nitrogen levels in blood to assess kidney function and how well the body removes waste. Elevated BUN may indicate kidney disease, dehydration, heart failure, or high protein intake, while low levels may suggest liver disease or malnutrition. Doctors order this test to evaluate fatigue, swelling, or abnormal lab results. Results help diagnose kidney and liver conditions and guide treatment decisions.

Specimen Type: Blood

Collection: Blood Draw

Also Known As: BUN Test, Blood Urea Nitrogen Test

$58.78
$17.95
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Uric Acid Test Most Popular

The Uric Acid Test measures uric acid levels in blood to assess kidney function and detect gout, a form of arthritis caused by uric acid buildup. High levels may also signal kidney disease, kidney stones, or metabolic disorders, while low levels can occur with liver disease. Doctors use this test to investigate joint pain, swelling, or frequent urination, and to monitor treatment for gout, kidney stones, or chemotherapy-related complications.

Specimen Type: Blood

Collection: Blood Draw

Also Known As: Serum Urate Test

$47.01
$19.95
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Urinalysis Complete Test Most Popular

The Urinalysis Complete Test evaluates urine for physical, chemical, and microscopic properties to assess kidney health, urinary tract infections, diabetes, and metabolic disorders. It measures appearance, concentration, pH, protein, glucose, ketones, blood, bilirubin, nitrites, leukocyte esterase, and microscopic cells or crystals. Doctors use this test in routine exams, to diagnose urinary symptoms, and to monitor chronic kidney or metabolic disease.

Specimen Type: Urine

Collection: Urine Collection

Also Known As: Urine Analysis Test, UA Test, Complete Urinalysis Test

$104.70
$24.95
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Protein Total Random Urine Test

The Protein Total Random Urine Test measures the amount of protein in a single urine sample to evaluate kidney function and detect disorders. Elevated protein levels (proteinuria) may indicate kidney disease, diabetes, hypertension, or urinary tract conditions. Doctors use this test to screen for kidney damage, monitor chronic disease, or investigate unexplained swelling, providing an important tool for early detection and treatment planning.

Specimen Type: Urine

Collection: Urine Collection

$139.99
$29.95
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Discover Heart Problems Early With Heart and Cardiovascular Tests

One person dies every 36 seconds in the United States from cardiovascular disease.

That may seem like a shocking statistic, but what's more surprising is that cardiovascular disease is also the leading cause of death in the US.

Thankfully, by utilizing blood testing for cardiovascular diseases, you can learn your risk factors and make changes in your life to help prevent future heart problems.

So, what is cardiovascular disease, and which heart and cardiovascular tests are used to help diagnose it? Keep reading to learn more about this deadly disease and how to prevent it.

What is Heart and Cardiovascular Disease?

Cardiovascular disease is a type of disease that affects the heart muscle or blood vessels. Heart and Cardiovascular Disease refers to several different conditions, such as heart failure, stroke, heart attack, and more. The most common type of cardiovascular disease in the US is Coronary Artery Disease.

Risk ... See more

One person dies every 36 seconds in the United States from cardiovascular disease.

That may seem like a shocking statistic, but what's more surprising is that cardiovascular disease is also the leading cause of death in the US.

Thankfully, by utilizing blood testing for cardiovascular diseases, you can learn your risk factors and make changes in your life to help prevent future heart problems.

So, what is cardiovascular disease, and which heart and cardiovascular tests are used to help diagnose it? Keep reading to learn more about this deadly disease and how to prevent it.

What is Heart and Cardiovascular Disease?

Risk Factors for Heart and Cardiovascular Disease

Several risk factors may contribute to cardiovascular disease. The most common risk factors include:

Family history of cardiovascular disease
Smoking
Drinking alcohol
Overweight
High blood pressure
High cholesterol
Unhealthy diet
Diabetes

Causes of Heart and Cardiovascular Disease

Heart disease is common and can affect anyone, no matter your age or gender. So, it's essential to understand the risk factors and start taking steps toward prevention.

There are various causes of heart disease. Many things can impact your heart health, including medical conditions and lifestyle choices.

Continuous research shows the importance of eating a heart-healthy diet and frequently exercising to help keep your cardiovascular system healthy.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Heart and Cardiovascular Disease?

There are different symptoms of different types of cardiovascular diseases. Some of the most common symptoms to look out for include:

Chest pain, tightness, or discomfort
Shortness of breath
Numbness, pain, cold, or weakness in your arms or legs
Dizzy or lightheaded
Irregular heartbeat
Rapid or slow heart rate

How is Heart and Cardiovascular Disease Diagnosed?

While it's difficult to know for sure if someone has cardiovascular disease based on symptoms alone, it is possible to confirm the presence of some cardiovascular diseases with cardiovascular blood tests. Other heart and cardiovascular tests used to diagnose heart disease may include cardiovascular CT scans, a coronary angiogram, ECG machine tests, and more.

Lab Tests Used to Screen, Diagnose, and Monitor Heart and Cardiovascular Disease

There are several substances in your blood that can indicate whether or not you have heart trouble. For example, if you have high levels of bad cholesterol in your blood, it may suggest that you are at increased risk of having a heart attack. Other substances in your blood can help determine if you are at risk of developing plaques in your coronary arteries or if you have heart failure.

Heart health blood tests can also help your doctor diagnose and treat your heart problems. However, keep in mind that one blood test alone doesn't define your risk of cardiovascular disease.

Here's a list of some of the most common cardiovascular blood tests used to diagnose and manage heart disease.

Cardio IQ Tests

There are many Cardio IQ Tests available at Ulta Lab Tests. Cardio IQ testing helps provide an in-depth assessment of cardiovascular risks by measuring different substances in the blood. This can help your medical provider to recommend an individualized treatment option for you based on your results.

Some of the most popular Cardio IQ tests available at Ulta Lab Tests include:

Cardio IQ Diabetes Risk Panel with Score
Cardio IQ ASCVD Risk Panel with Score
Cardio IQ™ ApoE Genotype
Cardio IQ™ Apolipoprotein A-1
Cardio IQ™ Apolipoprotein Evaluation
Cardio IQ™ Direct LDL
Cardio IQ™ Hemoglobin A1c
and more

Cardiovascular Disease (CVD)

Cardiovascular diseases are among the most common illnesses. These include heart disease, stroke, and other heart and blood vessel disorders. Diagnostic blood testing will depend on the type and severity of the CVD.

Lab tests used to diagnose CVD may include:

Complete Blood Count
Lipoprotein (a)
Lp-PLA2
Apolipoprotein A1
MTHFR Mutation
APOE Genotyping
Apolipoprotein B
Homocysteine
LDL Cholesterol
Hs-CRP
Fibrinogen
Triglycerides

Cholesterol

It's vital to track your cholesterol and risk for linked heart disease, stroke, or heart attack. A lipid panel is a simple blood test that is used to check the levels of cholesterol in the blood.

The test produces four measures:

Total or overall cholesterol
Triglycerides
LDL cholesterol
HDL cholesterol

Congestive Heart Failure (CHF)

Congestive heart failure happens when the heart muscle becomes weakened and can't pump blood to the rest of the body as well as it should. This often causes blood to back up, and fluid builds up in the lungs, causing the patient to feel short of breath.

Some people have heart conditions that make it difficult for the heart to work properly. These include high blood pressure and narrowed arteries in the heart (coronary artery disease).

Blood Tests used to detect these conditions may include:

Basic Metabolic Panel
Urinalysis
NT-proBNP and BNP
Complete blood count
Electrolytes

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)

Coronary artery disease is a serious condition that can lead to a heart attack or stroke if left untreated. Many people don't even realize they have this disease because it often develops over many years, as your blood vessels build up with cholesterol-containing deposits (plaques) and become inflamed.

The lipoprotein test is one test that is performed to screen for coronary artery disease. Doctors use this test to determine the level of LDL cholesterol that has attached to the coronary artery. If you have a high level of LDL, you may need further heart tests.

With other specific blood tests, you may be able to find out if you have or are at risk for Coronary Artery Disease. Some of these tests may include:

LDL Cholesterol
HDL Cholesterol
Lactate Dehydrogenase
Creatine Kinase
Triglycerides
Hs-CRP
NT-proBNP and BNP
Myoglobin
Homocysteine

Heart Attack Risk

The arteries that feed the heart (coronary arteries) can narrow or become so clogged with fat, cholesterol, and other substances that blood flow to your heart is reduced or cut off. This is what causes a heart attack, and it is a serious medical emergency.

It's critical to call 911 or emergency medical help if you think you, or someone you love, might be having a heart attack.

Blood tests that you may need to determine your heart attack risk include the following:

Creatine Kinase
Comprehensive Metabolic Panel
NT-proBNP and BNP
hs-CRP
Myoglobin
Complete Blood Count

Heart Disease

Heart disease encompasses many conditions, including heart failure, coronary artery disease, and more. Blood tests will depend on your symptoms and the type of heart disease you have and may include the following.

HDL cholesterol
LDL Cholesterol
Triglycerides
Creatine Kinase
Myoglobin
NT-proBNP and BNP
Homocysteine
Lactate Dehydrogenase
Hs-CRP

Heart Health

Your blood contains substances that are released when your heart muscle is damaged, such as after a heart attack. These substances can be measured in your blood and may give a readout of the amount of damage to your heart muscle.

There are several blood tests used to measure heart health. In addition, a general heart health panel can be ordered to test for multiple heart diseases.

Such lab tests may include:

Lipid panels (levels of HDL-C, LDL-C, triglycerides, and cholesterol)
Hs-CRP
Lp(a)
Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP)

These tests may be done in combination with other lab tests for more information and details.

High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)

Blood pressure is the measure of the force with which your blood pushes against the walls of your blood vessels. And when your blood pressure is too high, it can be dangerous and cause other issues.

Based on an individual's medical history, physical exam, and routine laboratory test results, some blood tests may be used to help detect and monitor conditions causing hypertension, such as:

Microalbumin with creatinine
Glucose
Calcium
Hemoglobin A1c
Lipid Panel
TSH
Aldosterone
Urinalysis
Cortisol
Potassium
Urine protein

Stroke

A stroke happens when blood supply to the brain is reduced or disrupted, stopping brain tissue from receiving nutrients and oxygen. Brain cells often start to die within minutes. Strokes are considered a medical emergency.

Tests for a stroke may measure the following substances:

Complete blood count (CBC)
Blood glucose
Partial thromboplastin time (PTT)
Electrolytes
Prothrombin time (PT) and INR
Lipid panel, which includes cholesterol, HDL, and LDL

Vasculitis

Vasculitis is known as a rare inflammatory disease of the blood vessels. This inflammation can cause the walls of the blood vessels to thicken, which narrows the delicate passageways through which blood flows. The restricted blood flow can cause severe damage to organs and tissues.

Diagnosing vasculitis can be tricky. However, blood tests that scan for specific antibodies, such as the anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) test, can help detect and diagnose vasculitis.

Frequently Asked Questions About Heart and Cardiovascular Disease and Lab Testing

Need more information? Find answers to some of the most common questions about Heart and Cardiovascular Disease below.

Is Hypertension a Cardiovascular Disease?

Yes. There are many health risks associated with high blood pressure (hypertension), including heart disease.

How Do You Prevent Cardiovascular Disease?

Heart disease continues to be a considerable health problem in the US. Screening for cardiovascular disease with blood testing is vital to early detection. Plus, with a few simple lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, managing stress, and eating healthy, you can significantly reduce your chances of getting heart disease.

Are Cardiovascular Disease and Heart Disease the Same Thing?

Yes and no. Heart disease is a type of Cardiovascular disease, but not all Cardiovascular diseases are heart disease.

Heart disease refers to a specific type of cardiovascular disease that includes numerous issues, many of which are linked to a process called atherosclerosis.

Arteries are like highways that carry blood throughout the body. They have thick walls that keep blood flowing and prevent it from clotting. Atherosclerosis occurs when plaque builds up in the arteries. The plaques can narrow a person's arteries, making it harder for blood to flow. In addition, plaques may break away and completely block an artery, causing severe problems, like a heart attack or stroke.

How Do You Test for Heart Function?

A cardiovascular blood test can help determine whether you're at risk for heart failure. Testing blood for specific traits is one of the best ways to check your heart health and prevent heart disease.

Benefits of Heart and Cardiovascular Disease Lab Testing with Ulta Lab Tests

Ulta Lab Tests offers cardiovascular diagnostic tests that are highly accurate and reliable so that you can make informed decisions about your health. Here are a few great things to love about Ulta Lab Tests:

You'll get secure and confidential results
You don't need health insurance
You don't need a physician's referral
You'll get affordable pricing
We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee

Order your Heart and Cardiovascular Disease lab tests today, and your results will be provided to you securely and confidentially online in 24 to 48 hours for most tests.

Take control of your heart health with Ulta Lab Tests today!

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