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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Kappa Light Chain, Free, Urine 3

Specimen Type: Urine

Collection: Urine Collection

$127.30
$101.95
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Kappa/Lambda Light Chains Free with Ratio Blood Test

The Kappa/Lambda Light Chains, Free with Ratio Blood Test measures free kappa and lambda light chains, proteins produced by plasma cells, and calculates their ratio. Abnormal results may indicate multiple myeloma, light chain amyloidosis, or related plasma cell disorders. Doctors use this test with serum protein electrophoresis and immunofixation to detect, diagnose, and monitor disease progression or treatment response in patients with suspected blood cancers.

Specimen Type: Blood

Collection: Blood Draw

$254.59
$182.95
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Kappa/Lambda Light Chains Free with Ratio and Reflex to Immunofixation

The Kappa/Lambda Light Chains Free with Ratio and Reflex to Immunofixation Test measures free light chains in blood and calculates the kappa/lambda ratio to evaluate plasma cell disorders. Abnormal levels can indicate multiple myeloma, light chain amyloidosis, or related monoclonal gammopathies. Reflex immunofixation confirms monoclonal proteins, supporting diagnosis and monitoring of plasma cell dyscrasias.

Specimen Type: Blood

Collection: Blood Draw

$254.59
$248.95
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Kappa/Lambda Light Chains Free with Ratio Urine Test

The Kappa/Lambda Light Chains Free with Ratio Urine Test measures free immunoglobulin light chains and calculates the kappa/lambda ratio to assess abnormal protein production. This test helps detect and monitor plasma cell disorders such as multiple myeloma, light chain disease, and monoclonal gammopathy, providing insight into renal involvement and disease progression.

Specimen Type: Urine

Collection: Urine Collection

$254.59
$192.95
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Lactic Acid Plasma Test

The Lactic Acid Plasma Test measures lactic acid levels in the blood to help evaluate oxygen delivery, metabolic function, and tissue health. Elevated levels may signal hypoxia, sepsis, shock, heart failure, or severe infection, while mild increases can occur with intense exercise. Doctors use this test to assess critically ill patients, guide urgent treatment, and monitor metabolic or circulatory disorders for timely medical intervention.

Specimen Type: Blood

Collection: Blood Draw

Also Known As: Lactate Test, L-Lactate Test, Lactate Plasma Test, Lactate Blood Test

$79.56
$60.95
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Lactoferrin Qualitative Stool Test

The Lactoferrin Qualitative Stool Test measures lactoferrin in stool to assess intestinal inflammation. Positive results may signal inflammatory bowel disease, including Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, while negative results often suggest non-inflammatory conditions. This test supports evaluation of gastrointestinal health, immune activity, and disorders affecting digestive function.

Specimen Type: Stool

Collection: Stool Collection

$132.60
$119.95
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Lactoferrin Quantitative Stool Test

The Lactoferrin Quantitative Stool Test evaluates stool for lactoferrin concentration to assess inflammation in the digestive tract. Increased levels are often linked to inflammatory bowel disease, including Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, while low or normal levels suggest non-inflammatory conditions. This test provides insight into immune activity, gastrointestinal health, and systemic balance.

Specimen Type: Stool

Collection: Stool Collection

$196.25
$175.95
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Lambda Light Chain Free Serum Test

The Lambda Light Chain Free Serum Test measures the concentration of free lambda light chains in the blood to evaluate plasma cell activity and detect abnormal immunoglobulin production. Elevated or imbalanced levels may indicate multiple myeloma, light chain disease, or other monoclonal gammopathies, helping monitor immune and bone marrow disorders.

Specimen Type: Blood

Collection: Blood Draw

$127.30
$101.95
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Lambda Light Chain Free Urine Test

Specimen Type: Urine

Collection: Urine Collection

$127.30
$101.95
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Lipid and Glucose Panel

Specimen Type: Blood

Collection: Blood Draw, Phlebotomist

$221.39
$15.95
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Lipid Panel Test Most Popular

The Lipid Panel Test checks six key blood lipids: total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, non-HDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and the Chol/HDL ratio. This panel assesses risk for cardiovascular disease, heart attack, and stroke by evaluating cholesterol balance and fat levels in the blood. Doctors use lipid panel results for routine screening, treatment monitoring, and guiding lifestyle or medication adjustments.

Also Known As: Lipid Profile Test, Cholesterol Panel Test, Lipids Blood Test

$162.61
$22.95
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Lipid Panel and C-Reactive Protein Cardiac (hsCRP)

The Lipid and hs-CRP Panel is a combination of tests commonly ordered by healthcare professionals to assess an individual's risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. This panel includes the Lipid Panel and hs-CRP tests, each playing a crucial role in understanding heart health and inflammation in the body. The analysis of these markers provides valuable insights into the patient's health status, enabling early intervention and management strategies to prevent the onset or progression of diseases.

Specimen Type: Blood

Collection: Blood Draw, Phlebotomist

$263.48
$56.90
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Lipid Panel and Comprehensive Metabolic Panel-CMP

Specimen Type: Blood

Collection: Blood Draw, Phlebotomist

$259.49
$39.95
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Lipid Panel with Direct LDL

The Lipid Panel with Direct LDL is a comprehensive blood test used to assess the levels of cholesterol and fats in the blood, which are critical indicators of heart health. This panel includes measurements of total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, non-HDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and ratios that provide insights into cardiovascular risk.

Specimen Type: Blood

Collection: Blood Draw, Phlebotomist

$277.01
$44.95
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Lipid Panel Test with Ratios Most Popular

The Lipid Panel with Ratios Test measures seven key markers: total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, non-HDL cholesterol, triglycerides, Chol/HDL ratio, and LDL/HDL ratio. This advanced panel evaluates cardiovascular risk by assessing cholesterol balance and fat metabolism. Doctors use it to detect high cholesterol, atherosclerosis risk, and heart disease, and to monitor treatment. Often part of routine exams, it provides insight into long-term heart and metabolic health.

Also Known As: Lipid Profile Test, Cholesterol Panel Test, Lipid Blood Test

$162.61
$22.95
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Lipid Panel Test with Reflex to Direct LDL

The Lipid Panel Test with Reflex to Direct LDL measures total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, triglycerides, and cholesterol ratios to assess heart and vascular health. If triglycerides are very high, it automatically reflexes to direct LDL measurement for greater accuracy. Doctors use this test to evaluate cardiovascular risk, guide cholesterol management, and monitor therapy. Results provide key insight into lipid balance, heart disease prevention, and metabolic health.

Also Known As: Lipid Profile with Reflex Test, Lipids with Reflex Test, Cholesterol Profile with Reflex Test

$162.61
$31.95
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Lipid Treatment Panel with Lipoprotein Fractionation

Specimen Type: Blood

Collection: Blood Draw, Phlebotomist

$557.45
$271.95
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Lipoprotein (a) Test Most Popular

The Lipoprotein (a) Test measures Lp(a), a genetic form of LDL cholesterol linked to higher risk of heart disease, stroke, and atherosclerosis. Unlike standard cholesterol tests, Lp(a) levels are inherited and not easily lowered by lifestyle changes. Doctors order this test for patients with a family history of early cardiovascular disease or high cholesterol. Results help identify hidden risk, guide prevention strategies, and support heart and vascular health management.

Specimen Type: Blood

Collection: Blood Draw

Also Known As: Lipoprotein A Test, Lpa Test, Lp(a) Test

$114.40
$38.95
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Lipoprotein Electrophoresis Test

The Lipoprotein Electrophoresis Test evaluates lipid metabolism by measuring the distribution of major lipoprotein classes such as HDL, LDL, VLDL, and chylomicrons. This test can reveal dyslipoproteinemias, detect abnormal lipid transport, and support assessment of cardiovascular and metabolic health. It offers a more detailed profile than routine cholesterol testing, highlighting underlying patterns that contribute to atherosclerosis risk.

Specimen Type: Blood

Collection: Blood Draw

$72.13
$49.95
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Lp-PLA2 Activity Test Most Popular

The Lp-PLA2 Activity Test measures lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 enzyme activity, a marker of vascular inflammation linked to atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease. Elevated levels may increase risk for heart attack and stroke. Doctors order this test for patients with high cholesterol, metabolic syndrome, or other risk factors. Results provide valuable insight into arterial health, helping guide prevention, treatment, and heart disease management.

Specimen Type: Blood

Collection: Blood Draw

Also Known As: LpPLA2 Test, Ps-PLA2 Activity Test, Platelet-activating Factor Acetylhydrolase Test, PAF-AH Test, PLAC Test, Lipoprotein-Associated Phospholipase A2 Test

$299.99
$89.95
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Lupus Anticoagulant Evaluation with Reflex

The Lupus Anticoagulant Evaluation with Reflex measures PTT-LA and dRVVT to detect lupus anticoagulant antibodies, which increase risk of abnormal clotting. Reflex tests such as Hexagonal Phase Confirmation, Thrombin Clotting Time, and dRVVT mixing are performed if results are prolonged. Doctors use this panel to evaluate unexplained clotting, recurrent miscarriage, or autoimmune disease, aiding in diagnosis of antiphospholipid syndrome.

Specimen Type: Blood

Collection: Blood Draw

Also Known As: LA Test, LAC Test, Lupus Anticoagulant Panel Test, Lupus Inhibitor Test, LA Sensitive PTT Test, PTT-LA Test,

$119.95
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Magnesium Micronutrient RBC Test

The Magnesium Micronutrient RBC Test measures magnesium levels within red blood cells, providing a more accurate assessment of long-term magnesium status than serum tests. Magnesium is vital for muscle and nerve function, energy production, bone strength, and heart health. This test helps detect deficiencies or imbalances from poor diet, absorption issues, or medical conditions, supporting overall wellness.

Patient must be 18 years of age or older.

Specimen Type: Other

Collection: Phlebotomist

Also Known As:

Magnesium Red Bood Cell Test, Mg Test, Mag Test

$29.95
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Magnesium RBC Test Most Popular

The Magnesium RBC Test measures magnesium inside red blood cells, providing a more accurate assessment of magnesium status than serum tests. Magnesium is vital for energy production, muscle and nerve function, heart rhythm, and bone health. Low levels may cause fatigue, cramps, arrhythmias, or weakness, while high levels may signal kidney issues. Doctors order this test to detect deficiency, monitor therapy, and evaluate overall metabolic and nutritional health.

Specimen Type: Other

Collection: Phlebotomist

Also Known As: Magnesium Red Bood Cell Test, Mg Test, Mag Test

$110.67
$30.95
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Metabolic Syndrome and Glucose Control Panel

The Metabolic Syndrome & Glucose Control Panel evaluates key biomarkers—fasting glucose, insulin, lipids, and related metrics—to assess insulin resistance, glucose dysregulation, and cardiometabolic risk. This integrated panel helps clinicians identify metabolic syndrome early, monitor glycemic control, and guide interventions to reduce progression to type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

$199.69
$188.95
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Metals Panel 2, Urine (Csa)

Specimen Type: Urine

Collection: Urine Collection

$116.95
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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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