US doctor shares a simple at-home test to check for heart blockage

A race for the doctor's appointment and multitude of tests, that's just the beginning when one is suspicious of a heart problem. However, what most people miss is that before the rush hour, the body gives multiple signs that something is wrong with it.

All you need to do is be vigilant and notice them to be able to track your health. Now, a cardiovascular surgeon has shared a simple test that you can do from the comfort of your home to figure out if your heart has a problem.

US doctor shares at-home test

Dr Jeremy London, a board-certified cardiovascular surgeon shared a video on YouTube to explain the test and how to do it, adding that the information could be 'lifesaving'.

The medic shared that you don't always need a blood test, X-ray or electrocardiogram (ECG) to check how healthy your heart is. Instead you can 'listen to your body' and see if you spot certain 'red flags', that can help identify if you need to book a doctor's appointment.

The signs you need to be on the lookout for are:

• chest tightness
• chest pain
• shortness of breath
• pain in the jaw or arm

If these signs are 'relieved with rest', the surgeon says that 'this is a red flag'. "When you exert yourself, that area below the blockage is blood-starved and you start to have these symptoms. When you rest, the demand on this area of the heart goes down and the pain goes away," he explained in the video. He shared that these symptoms are all signs that could suggest 'you may have important blockages of the heart arteries'.

Signals of the heart

Arteries are one of the key parts of the heart and circulatory system. They carry the oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the organs and tissues in the body. However, if their walls are damaged due to factors like high blood pressure, it can cause inflammation and the build-up of fatty material.

The body tries to heal the condition, by creating a seal of fibrous material over the walls. But over time, it hardens and forms plaque, making the arteries even narrower.

As per the British Heart Foundation, people who have blockages in heart arteries don't realise it for years, as they often don't experience any symptoms. But if you leave it untreated, it can have fatal consequences.

Chest pain or tightness, also known as angina, is a symptom of a heart problem, according to the American Heart Association. As the doctor said, it happens with physical activity and gets better when you rest, as per the association.

Additionally, shortness of breath during activity or exercise and pain in the neck, jaw, one or both arms, are also symptoms of a heart problem, according to the association.

If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned by the doctor then you might want to book an appointment with the doctor. However, the doctor did say that he is not issuing 'medical advice' and that the test does not supersede the proper technology and methods used to diagnose heart blockage.

Note: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new medication or treatment and before changing your diet or supplement regimen.