With an increase in heart disease across all ages of the population, a lot more people are looking for tests to actively assess their heart health. However, most individuals rely solely on their lipid profile to check for cholesterol markers. While this is essential, it may overlook critical indicators of cardiovascular risk. As per recent studies, inflammation is the key factor to check in heart disease. This is why opting for comprehensive health checkup packages at the best pathology lab in Mumbai is better than an individual test.
About Inflammation and Its Role
Inflammation is a natural response of the body’s immune system to injury or infection. However, when it becomes chronic, it can damage blood vessels, promote plaque formation, and increase your risk of heart disease and stroke. Traditional lipid profiles measure cholesterol levels but do not assess inflammation, which can be present even when cholesterol levels are normal.
Key Tests to Assess Heart Health
To gain a more accurate checkup for heart health, consider including the following tests as well:
- High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) Test: This blood test measures the level of C-reactive protein, which increases in response to inflammation. Elevated hs-CRP levels are associated with a higher risk of heart attack and stroke.
- Lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) Test: Lp(a) is a type of lipoprotein that carries cholesterol in the blood. High levels of Lp(a) are genetically determined and can increase the risk of heart disease, independent of other cholesterol levels.
- Homocysteine Test: Elevated homocysteine levels can damage blood vessel walls and increase the risk of cardiovascular events. This test helps identify individuals at higher risk for heart attacks and strokes.
Risk Factors That May Contribute to Heart Disease
Certain individuals may be at higher risk of heart disease and may need to opt for timely health checkup packages, if they have the following:
- Family history of heart disease
- Diabetes or insulin resistance
- Smoking or heavy alcohol consumption
- High blood pressure
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Autoimmune disorders (like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus)
In such cases, a routine cholesterol check may not be enough. Consult your doctor to determine relevant screenings as a comprehensive checkup for heart health can help with detecting any concerns earlier.
Simple Lifestyle Changes to Reduce Inflammation
While any talk of heart disease can be troubling, it is important to remember that inflammation is manageable. Small, consistent lifestyle changes can have a big impact in reducing risk and even managing the condition.
- Anti-inflammatory diet: Include leafy greens, berries, fatty fish (like salmon), turmeric, and whole grains.
- Exercise regularly: Even 30 minutes of walking 5 days a week can help reduce inflammation.
- Manage stress: Mindfulness, meditation, or hobbies can lower stress-induced inflammation.
- Quit smoking and limit alcohol: These are major triggers for chronic inflammation.
- Get quality sleep: Poor sleep is strongly linked with higher inflammatory markers.
Conclusion
For a thorough assessment of your heart health, consider opting for health checkup packages that include these tests. Comprehensive packages often combine lipid profiles with inflammation markers, kidney and liver function tests, and other relevant screenings to provide a detailed view of your cardiovascular health. At Clinico, the best pathology lab in Mumbai, we offer comprehensive and accurate checkup for heart health to help you live a healthier life.
