Diagnostic evaluation of sequelae of angina

  Are there diagnostic tests available which would allow the cardiologist to provide information to the patient as to whether or not cardiac pain is indicative of tissue damage?  Also, are tests available that would confirm pain that seems to be cardiac in nature, i. e., comes on with exertion, resolves with rest from activity, sometimes is accompanied by shortness of breath, is NOT cardiac pain?  What could be learned from a cardiolyte stress test?
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Dear Linda
A stress test with an imaging agent (as the one you describe) is a reasonable way to determine if chest pain is due to blood flow problems with the heart. This sort of test would indicate if there has been a prior heart attack and/or if there is part of the heart that is at risk for a heart attack in the future.
I hope this is useful. Feel free to write back with further questions. Good luck.
Information provided here is of a general nature. Specific diagnoses and treatments can only be made by your doctor. If you would like to be seen at the Cleveland Clinic, please call 1-800-CCF-CARE for an appointment with a cardiologist at Desk F15.