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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Aldosterone 24 Hour Urine Test

The Aldosterone 24 Hour Urine Test evaluates adrenal hormone output across 24 hours, offering information about blood pressure regulation, fluid balance, and electrolyte control. Elevated or low levels may suggest primary aldosteronism, adrenal tumors, or secondary hypertension. This test supports assessment of kidney function, cardiovascular health, and endocrine disorders linked to aldosterone imbalance.

Specimen Type: Urine

Collection: Urine Collection

$111.38
$87.95
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Aldosterone Test

The Aldosterone Test measures levels of aldosterone, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands that helps regulate blood pressure, sodium, and potassium balance. Abnormal levels may indicate primary aldosteronism, adrenal tumors, kidney disease, or secondary hypertension. Doctors use this blood test to investigate high blood pressure, electrolyte imbalances, or suspected adrenal disorders, helping guide diagnosis, treatment, and long-term patient management.

Specimen Type: Blood

Collection: Blood Draw

Also Known As: Aldosterone Plasma Test

$111.38
$53.95
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ALP Test

The ALP Test measures alkaline phosphatase enzyme levels in blood to evaluate liver, bone, and bile duct health. High ALP may indicate liver disease, bile duct obstruction, bone disorders, or certain cancers, while low levels may suggest malnutrition or deficiency. Doctors order this test to investigate symptoms like fatigue, abdominal pain, or bone pain and often pair it with other liver function tests. Results provide key insight into metabolic and organ health.

Specimen Type: Blood

Collection: Blood Draw

Also Known As: Alkaline Phosphatase Test, Alk Phos Test, Alkp Test

$58.78
$14.95
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Alkaline Phosphatase Isoenzymes Test

The Alkaline Phosphatase Isoenzymes Test measures different forms of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) in the blood to determine their source, such as liver, bone, intestine, or placenta. Doctors use this test to evaluate abnormal ALP results, identify liver disease, bile duct obstruction, bone disorders like Paget’s disease, or certain cancers. It helps distinguish between conditions and guides accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

$257.92
$60.95
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Alpha-2-Antiplasmin Test

The Alpha-2-Antiplasmin Test measures the activity of alpha-2-antiplasmin, a key inhibitor of plasmin that regulates fibrinolysis and clot stability. Reduced alpha-2-antiplasmin levels can lead to excessive fibrin breakdown, resulting in bleeding tendencies or delayed clot formation. This test helps evaluate abnormal bleeding, monitor fibrinolytic disorders, and assess the balance of clot formation and dissolution.

Specimen Type: Blood

Collection: Blood Draw

$138.01
$87.95
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ALT Test

The ALT Test measures alanine aminotransferase, an enzyme mainly found in the liver. Elevated ALT may indicate liver damage from hepatitis, fatty liver disease, cirrhosis, alcohol use, or medication effects. Doctors order this test to evaluate symptoms such as fatigue, abdominal pain, or jaundice and often pair it with AST for accurate liver assessment. Results provide essential insight into liver health, enzyme activity, and overall metabolic function.

Specimen Type: Blood

Collection: Blood Draw

Also Known As: Alanine Aminotransferase Test, GPT Test, SGPT Test, Serum Glutamic Pyruvic Transaminase Test

$58.78
$14.95
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ANA Screen IFA with Reflex to Titer and Pattern Most Popular

The ANA Screen IFA with Reflex to Titer and Pattern Test detects antinuclear antibodies in blood to evaluate autoimmune activity. If positive, further testing identifies antibody concentration (titer) and fluorescence pattern, helping diagnose conditions like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or Sjögren’s syndrome. Doctors order this test to investigate symptoms such as joint pain, fatigue, rash, or swelling and to guide treatment for autoimmune and connective tissue disorders.

Also Known As: ANA Test, Antinuclear Antibody Screen Test

$96.51
$41.95
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ANCA Screen with MPO and PR3 with Reflex to ANCA Titer

The ANCA Screen with MPO and PR3 with Reflex to ANCA Titer detects antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies linked to autoimmune vasculitis. By targeting myeloperoxidase (MPO) and proteinase 3 (PR3), this test helps evaluate conditions such as granulomatosis with polyangiitis or microscopic polyangiitis. It supports diagnosis, disease activity monitoring, and assessment of autoimmune inflammation.

$321.95
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ANCA Screen with Reflex to ANCA Titer

The ANCA Screen with Reflex to ANCA Titer detects antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies, often linked to autoimmune vasculitis such as granulomatosis with polyangiitis and microscopic polyangiitis. If the screen is positive, a titer is performed to measure antibody levels for greater diagnostic accuracy. Doctors use this test to evaluate unexplained inflammation, kidney or lung issues, and guide treatment decisions in autoimmune and systemic vasculitis care.

Specimen Type: Blood

Collection: Blood Draw

Also Known As: ANCA Test, cANCA Test, pANCA Test, Serine Protease 3 Test, Acticytoplasmic Test, 3-ANCA test, PR3-ANCA Test, MPO-ANCA test

$299.99
$83.95
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ANCA Vasculitides Test

The ANCA Vasculitides Test measures antibodies that target neutrophils, helping identify autoimmune vasculitis. It aids in diagnosing conditions including granulomatosis with polyangiitis and microscopic polyangiitis. This test provides insight into systemic inflammation, kidney disease, and respiratory involvement, supporting evaluation of autoimmune disorders linked to vascular and organ damage.

Specimen Type: Blood

Collection: Blood Draw

$286.84
$204.95
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Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Test

The Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE) Test measures ACE levels in the blood to help diagnose and monitor sarcoidosis, a condition marked by granulomas in the lungs, lymph nodes, or other organs. Elevated ACE may also be seen in other granulomatous diseases. Doctors use this test to support diagnosis, track disease activity, and evaluate response to therapy, especially when paired with imaging or additional lab studies.

Specimen Type: Blood

Collection: Blood Draw

Also Known As: ACE Test, SACE Test, Serum Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Test

$52.95
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Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE) Polymorphism (Insertion/Deletion)

Specimen Type: Blood

Collection: Blood Draw

$222.77
$168.95
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Angiotensin II Test

The Angiotensin II Test evaluates blood levels of a hormone central to the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, which regulates blood pressure and electrolyte balance. Abnormal values may indicate hypertension, kidney disease, adrenal dysfunction, or endocrine disorders. Measuring angiotensin II helps identify causes of abnormal blood pressure and supports monitoring of cardiovascular health, guiding clinical assessment of vascular and metabolic conditions.

Specimen Type: Blood

Collection: Blood Draw

$94.41
$69.95
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Angiotensin II Type 1 Receptor (AGTR1) Gene 1166A?C Polymorphism

Specimen Type: Blood

Collection: Blood Draw

$257.95
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Antithrombin III Activity Test

The Antithrombin III Activity Test evaluates how effectively antithrombin controls clot formation in the blood. Reduced activity may indicate a hereditary deficiency, abnormal coagulation, or increased risk for venous thrombosis. This test provides insight into clotting disorders, supports diagnosis of thrombophilia, and helps assess vascular health and systemic risks related to impaired anticoagulant activity.

Specimen Type: Blood

Collection: Blood Draw

$208.45
$44.95
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Apolipoprotein A1 Test Most Popular

The Apolipoprotein A1 (Apo A1) Test measures levels of Apo A1, the main protein in HDL cholesterol, to assess heart and vascular health. Higher levels are linked to protective “good” cholesterol, while low levels may increase risk of heart disease, stroke, or metabolic disorders. Doctors use this test with lipid panels to evaluate cardiovascular risk, monitor therapy, and guide prevention strategies for cholesterol balance and heart health.

Specimen Type: Blood

Collection: Blood Draw

Also Known As: Apo A1 Test, Apolipoprotein A-1 Test

$106.40
$35.95
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Apolipoprotein A1 and B Test Most Popular

The Apolipoprotein A1 and B Test measures Apo A1, the main protein in HDL cholesterol, and Apo B, the primary protein in LDL and VLDL cholesterol. Together, these markers and the ApoB/A1 ratio provide a clearer picture of cardiovascular risk than standard lipid panels. High ApoB or low Apo A1 may signal heart disease, stroke, or atherosclerosis. Doctors use this test to evaluate cholesterol balance, monitor therapy, and guide prevention of cardiovascular conditions.

Specimen Type: Blood

Collection: Blood Draw

Also Known As: Apo A1 and B Test, Apolipoprotein Evaluation Test

$220.80
$55.95
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Apolipoprotein B Test Most Popular

The Apolipoprotein B (ApoB) Test measures ApoB, the main protein in LDL and VLDL cholesterol, to assess cardiovascular risk. Elevated ApoB is linked to atherosclerosis, coronary artery disease, heart attack, and stroke. Low levels may reflect liver disease or malnutrition. Doctors often order this test with lipid panels or Apo A1 to calculate the ApoB/A1 ratio, providing a more accurate picture of cholesterol balance, cardiovascular health, and risk for heart disease.

Specimen Type: Blood

Collection: Blood Draw

Also Known As: Apo B Test, Apolipoprotein B-100 Test

$114.40
$35.95
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AspirinWorks® 11-Dehydrothromboxane B2 Test with Creatinine

The AspirinWorks® 11-Dehydrothromboxane B2 Test with Creatinine measures urinary levels of 11-dehydrothromboxane B2, a biomarker of platelet activation. This test helps assess the effectiveness of aspirin therapy and detect aspirin resistance. By adjusting for creatinine, it provides an accurate reflection of thromboxane production, supporting cardiovascular risk management and treatment monitoring.

Specimen Type: Random

Collection: Phlebotomist

Also Known As: 11-dhTXB2 Test

$104.95
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BNP Test Most Popular

The B-Type Natriuretic Peptide (BNP) Test measures BNP levels in blood to help diagnose and monitor heart failure and other cardiac conditions. High levels suggest the heart is under stress, often from congestive heart failure, hypertension, or heart disease. Doctors order this test for patients with shortness of breath, fatigue, or swelling. Results provide critical insight into heart function, guiding treatment and monitoring response to therapy.

Specimen Type: Blood

Collection: Blood Draw

Also Known As: Brain Natriuretic Peptide Test

$220.05
$82.95
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Basic Metabolic Panel Test Most Popular

The Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP) Test measures eight markers, including glucose, calcium, sodium, potassium, chloride, carbon dioxide, BUN, and creatinine, to evaluate kidney function, blood sugar, and electrolyte balance. Doctors use this panel to detect diabetes, dehydration, and kidney disease, or to monitor treatment. It is commonly ordered in routine exams, emergency care, or pre-surgical testing to assess overall metabolic and organ health.

Specimen Type: Blood

Collection: Blood Draw

Also Known As: BMP Test, Chemistry Panel, Chemistry Screen, Chem 7, Chem 11, SMA 7, SMAC7, Basic Metabolic Test, Chem Test, Chem Panel Test

$77.53
$20.95
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Bile Acids Fractionated and Total Test

The Bile Acids Fractionated and Total Test measures both individual bile acid fractions and total bile acid concentration to evaluate liver function, bile flow, and metabolic integrity. This analysis helps detect cholestasis, hepatocellular injury, or impaired bile acid metabolism, supporting assessment of liver disorders, intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy, and other hepatobiliary conditions.

Specimen Type: Blood

Collection: Blood Draw

Also Known As: Bile Acids Test

$302.95
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BUN Creatinine Ratio Test

The BUN Creatinine Ratio Test compares blood urea nitrogen (BUN) to creatinine levels to assess kidney function and hydration status. A high ratio may indicate dehydration, gastrointestinal bleeding, or high protein intake, while a low ratio can suggest liver disease or malnutrition. Doctors order this test with kidney panels to evaluate fatigue, swelling, or abnormal lab results. Results help diagnose renal issues and guide treatment planning.

Specimen Type: Blood

Collection: Blood Draw

Also Known As: Blood Urea Nitrogen to Creatinine Ratio

$117.56
$17.95
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C-Reactive Protein Test Most Popular

The C-Reactive Protein (CRP) Test measures CRP levels in blood to detect inflammation in the body. Elevated CRP may indicate infections, autoimmune disorders, or chronic diseases such as arthritis, cardiovascular disease, or inflammatory bowel disease. Doctors use this test to assess acute illness, monitor treatment response, and evaluate risk for heart disease. The CRP test provides key insight into inflammation, immune health, and overall wellness.

Specimen Type: Blood

Collection: Blood Draw

Also Known As: CRP Test, Inflammation Test

$82.91
$30.95
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hs-CRP Test Most Popular

The High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) Test measures very low levels of CRP in blood to evaluate inflammation and cardiovascular risk. Elevated hs-CRP may indicate increased risk for heart disease, heart attack, or stroke even before symptoms appear. Doctors use this test along with cholesterol and other markers to assess overall heart health, guide prevention strategies, and monitor treatment. It also helps evaluate chronic inflammation and metabolic conditions.

Specimen Type: Blood

Collection: Blood Draw

Also Known As: Cardiac CRP Test, High Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein Test

$100.87
$36.95
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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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