Queey

[Etblue]

Had a mild heart attack @2 years ago a d lately fainting after gtn spray use. Quickly seen by nhs consultant cardiologist concerned about my breathless after treadmill test. She did not want to do anything invasive and has arranged a ct scan of the heart to see what's going on. My query is why does she not wish to be invasive at this point as I feel strong enough. Thanks for reading my post.

[Lowerfield_no_more]

I suggest you can only rely on the professional expertise of the cardiologist to decide what is best for you. However you could talk to the BHF Heart Helpline nurse who might be able to give you some insight into the decision you are querying.

bhf.org.uk/informationsuppo...

[Etblue in reply to Lowerfield_no_more]

Thankyou

[PadThaiNoodles]

In general it’s better to get the less invasive tests done first as they can point the way for further testing. For instance, a different invasive test might be done if valve issues are suspected (a trans-oesophageal echo) than if coronary artery issues are suspected (an angiogram).

[Etblue in reply to PadThaiNoodles]

Thankyou so much. Your response makes sense and reassures me. Regards

[TasteLessFood4Life]

CTCA or CT angiogram - is a pretty solid non-invasive test for showing the condition of the coronary arteries. It has less complications and is often used as a first resort before moving to the invasive coronary angiogram. Both will detect blockages.

In worst case, if the stenosis or narrowing is deemed to be severe and there is a case for a stent - then they will probably move the the invasive angiogram and place the stent. This is possible even after the ctca.

[Etblue in reply to TasteLessFood4Life]

Thankyou so much for your time and information. Thanks to the answers I have a better & calmer view if what's happening. Regards

[fishonabike]

The risks involved in invasive investigations are always greater than for non-invasive ones, so doctors will always aim to diagnose using invasive tests as the last resort.

Now that we have MRI and CAT scans which can "see" what is happening in the heart in lots of different ways, non-invasively these are prefered

[Etblue in reply to fishonabike]

Thankyou for your reply and supportive information. Regards