The Importance of Heart Checkups: Types, Differences, and Costs

A heartbeat is the rhythm of life, a sign that our body is still working, still fighting. However, we often forget that the heart can also quietly harbor serious risks without clear symptoms. In fact, heart disease is the second most common cause of death in Indonesia after stroke, in both men and women, according to 2022 data from the Indonesian Ministry of Health (Kemenkes).

At Heartology Cardiovascular Hospital, cardiology subspecialists can help you keep your heart healthy, supported by medical technology such as a 512-slice CT scan and the EnSite X system for arrhythmias.

Making Heart Checkups an Early Investment in Your Health

Quite a few people think that a heart checkup is only needed when symptoms appear. In reality, the opposite is true. Early detection is the key to preventing serious complications. According to the World Heart Federation, up to 80% of heart disease can be prevented with a healthy lifestyle and appropriately targeted routine checkups.

Tests such as a cardiac CT scan, a treadmill test, or an ECG can identify heart function problems before symptoms appear, allowing earlier and more effective treatment. That is why regular heart checkups are not only a form of prevention, but also an important investment in your future quality of life.

Read also:

• How to Keep Your Heart Healthy: A Complete and Practical Guide

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Why Are Heart Checkups Important? Know the Symptoms and Risk Factors

Heart health is a main pillar of quality of life. In fact, cardiovascular disease, which includes diseases of the heart and blood vessels, is the main cause of death worldwide, including in Indonesia. Many cases progress without significant symptoms until they reach a serious stage.

Routine heart checkups are not only for people who already have complaints, but are also a proactive step for early detection. By knowing the condition of your heart earlier, you can:

• Identify hidden risk factors
• Prevent serious complications
• Decide on the right treatment or lifestyle changes

According to the American Heart Association and PERKI (the Indonesian Heart Association), regular heart screening can lower the risk of a sudden heart attack and improve the effectiveness of treatment.

Symptoms to Watch Out For

The heart often gives signs when something is wrong. Get a heart checkup right away if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Chest pain (angina pectoris): A feeling of pressure, squeezing, or pain that can spread to the arm, back, neck, or jaw.
• Shortness of breath: Difficulty breathing, especially during light activity or when lying down.
• Heart palpitations: The heartbeat feels fast, irregular, or as if it is “skipping”.
• Dizziness or fainting: Lightheadedness or sudden loss of consciousness.
• Tiring easily: Excessive fatigue even after light activity.
• Swelling of the legs or abdomen (edema): A sign of fluid buildup due to impaired heart pumping function.

Important note! Sudden chest pain accompanied by cold sweats or nausea is an emergency sign. Contact emergency services immediately.

Risk Factors for Heart Disease

Several factors can increase the risk of heart disease, including:

1. Age : The risk increases above 40 years of age and is higher above 65.
2. Family history: Family members who developed heart disease at a young age.
3. Diabetes: Damages the blood vessels and the nerves of the heart.
4. Smoking: Speeds up artery damage and plaque formation.
5. Hypertension: High blood pressure makes the heart work harder.
6. High cholesterol: High LDL triggers atherosclerosis.
7. Obesity : Increases the risk of hypertension, high cholesterol, and diabetes.
8. Unhealthy diet & lack of physical activity: Accelerate other risk factors.

Even without symptoms, having one or more risk factors means you still need regular heart checkups.

Read also:

• Benefits of a Healthy Lifestyle: 3 Tips for Living a Strong and Healthy Life for Years to Come
• 9 Dangers of Smoking: Facts and Health Risks You Need to Know
• Heart-Healthy Diet Menu: Food Choices & Simple Tips

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Types of Heart Tests: Understanding Each Diagnostic Step

Heart tests are generally divided into two main categories:

1. Non-Invasive Tests, performed without an incision or entering the body, with minimal risk.
2. Invasive Tests, involving a minimally invasive procedure to obtain a more detailed picture and data.

The choice of test will be determined by a cardiologist based on your symptoms, risk factors, and medical history.

Non-Invasive Tests

These procedures are usually the first step in assessing heart health. Because they do not require an incision, the risk of complications is very low. Some of the commonly performed types include:

• Cardiac Blood Tests, which measure levels of cholesterol (LDL, HDL, triglycerides), blood sugar, and markers of heart muscle damage or inflammation. These tests help detect the risk of heart disease early.
• Electrocardiography (ECG), which records the heart’s electrical activity with electrodes on the chest, arms, and legs. It is useful for detecting arrhythmias, signs of a heart attack, or an enlarged heart (cardiomegaly).
• Echocardiography (Heart Ultrasound), which uses high-frequency sound waves to view the structure, valve function, and pumping strength of the heart. It can identify congenital abnormalities as well as heart muscle damage.
• Stress Test (Treadmill Test), which measures the heart’s response to physical activity by monitoring the ECG, pulse, and blood pressure. It is useful for detecting coronary heart disease.
• Chest X-Ray, which checks the size and shape of the heart and detects fluid buildup in the lungs or around the heart.
• Cardiac CT Scan, which shows a detailed picture of the heart and blood vessels. It is effective for seeing calcium or plaque in the coronary arteries.
• Cardiac MRI, which uses a magnetic field and radio waves to produce accurate images of the heart’s structure and function.
• Holter Monitoring, a portable ECG device that records the heart’s electrical activity for 24 to 48 hours or longer, to detect rhythm disorders that appear only occasionally.
• Myocardial Perfusion Imaging (Nuclear Heart Scan), which uses a low dose of radioactive substance to see blood flow to the heart muscle at rest and after activity.

Invasive Tests

These are performed if non-invasive tests have not given a definite result or if a more detailed evaluation is needed.

• Cardiac Catheterization (Coronary Angiography), the “gold standard” for assessing coronary heart disease. A catheter is inserted through a blood vessel in the wrist or groin, then a contrast fluid is injected so that the coronary arteries are clearly visible under X-ray. It can be followed directly by heart ring (stent) placement if needed.
• Electrophysiology Study (EP Study), which maps the heart’s electrical activity to find the source of complex arrhythmias.
• Heart Biopsy (Endomyocardial Biopsy), which takes a small sample of heart muscle tissue for laboratory analysis, usually to check for inflammation or infection, or for evaluation after a transplant.

After learning about the types of heart tests, it is important to understand how to prepare yourself so that the results are accurate and the process is comfortable.

Read also:

• Blood Tests: Benefits, How They Work, Types, and Interpreting the Results
• Electrocardiography (EKG or ECG): Overview, Benefits, and Expected Results
• Just 30 Minutes! Find Out Your Heart’s Condition With Echocardiography
• Cardiac CT Scan: Benefits, Procedure, Risks, and Costs
• Holter Monitoring: Monitoring and Detecting Heart Rhythm Disorders More Effectively

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Preparing for a Heart Checkup: For Accurate Results and Your Comfort

Proper preparation is an important step to make sure your heart checkup goes smoothly and the results are accurate. By preparing yourself in advance, you help the doctor obtain precise information while also reducing anxiety, so that the examination feels more comfortable.

General Preparation

This applies to most heart tests:

• Share your complete medical history: tell the team about all your health conditions, any allergies (especially to iodine or seafood), and the list of medicines, supplements, or vitamins you are taking. Some medicines, such as beta blockers, can affect the results of certain tests.
• Avoid caffeine and smoking: caffeine and nicotine can affect heart rate and blood pressure. Avoid coffee, tea, energy drinks, chocolate, and cigarettes for at least 24 hours before the test, especially for a stress test or treadmill test.
• Wear comfortable clothing: choose loose clothes that are easy to remove, such as a T-shirt and sweatpants. Avoid large jewelry or metal accessories, especially if you are having a cardiac CT scan or MRI.
• Stay relaxed: stress can raise your heart rate and blood pressure. Get enough sleep, control your breathing, and remember that this test is a proactive step to protect your heart health.

Specific Preparation for Certain Tests

• Fasting: for cardiac blood tests or procedures with contrast fluid (CT scan, cardiac catheterization), you usually need to fast from food and drink (except plain water) for 8 to 12 hours.
• Medication adjustments: do not stop any medicine without your doctor’s approval. For some tests, the doctor may ask you to temporarily stop certain heart medicines so that the test results are optimal.
• Bring sports shoes: specifically for a treadmill test, wear shoes that are comfortable and suitable for exercise.
• Preparing the test area: for an ECG, echo, or treadmill test, the chest area may need to be cleaned or shaved so that the electrodes stick properly.
• Avoid lotion or deodorant: before an ECG or echo, avoid using products on the chest area because they can interfere with signal recording.
• Complete fasting for certain procedures: transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) and cardiac catheterization usually require complete fasting for several hours before the procedure.

Note: Make sure you understand the instructions given by the doctor or nurse before the test. Proper preparation not only improves the accuracy of the results, but also helps you feel more mentally and physically ready.

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Understanding Your Heart Test Results

After a heart test, it is natural to feel anxious while waiting for the results. However, understanding your heart test results is not the end of the journey, but the beginning of proactive steps to maintain your heart health. These results are like a road map that will guide you and your doctor toward the right decisions.

The Importance of Consulting a Cardiologist

Results of tests such as an ECG, echocardiogram, or angiography contain technical and clinical information that requires expert interpretation. The cardiologist will:

• Relate the test results to your medical history, symptoms, and lifestyle.
• Explain the meaning of each finding in simple terms.
• Develop a personalized and well-targeted treatment plan.

This consultation is your opportunity to ask questions, express your concerns, and decide on a suitable strategy together with your doctor. A patient’s understanding of their medical results plays an important role in the success of treatment.

Next Steps After You Receive Your Results

Not every result that looks “abnormal” means you need major surgery. The doctor will recommend follow-up based on your condition, which may include:

1. Lifestyle modification: changing your diet to a healthier one (low in saturated fat, salt, and sugar), exercising regularly, quitting smoking, and managing stress. These steps can help prevent the condition from getting worse.
2. Medication adjustments: the doctor may prescribe medicines or change their dose to control blood pressure, cholesterol, or heart rhythm. It is important to follow the recommendations and not stop medicines suddenly.
3. Further tests: some results may require additional tests, such as a treadmill test or cardiac CT scan, to clarify the diagnosis.
4. Discussion of treatment options: if a significant problem is found, the doctor will explain options such as stent placement or bypass surgery, along with their benefits and risks.

By understanding your heart test results, your next steps become more focused, from lifestyle improvements to further therapy to protect your heart health in the future.

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Heart Checkup Costs

Knowing the cost of a heart checkup from the start will help you make better-planned health decisions.

Factors That Affect the Cost

The cost of a heart checkup varies depending on several things, including:

• Type and complexity of the test: basic tests such as an ECG cost differently from more complex procedures such as a cardiac CT scan or cardiac catheterization.
• Need for additional procedures: the results of one test may require further examination, making the total cost higher.
• Insurance coverage: private health insurance may cover part or all of the cost, depending on your policy.

Costs of Various Tests in Indonesia

The cost of each heart test, such as an ECG, echocardiography, treadmill test, cardiac CT scan, cardiac catheterization, Holter monitoring, and cardiac blood tests, differs between facilities and depends on your condition and the procedures needed. Because rates can change, ask the healthcare facility directly for the latest costs. If catheterization is followed by stent placement, cost information can be found on the heart ring (stent) placement cost page.

Heart Checkup Packages at Heartology

Heartology offers heart checkup packages that combine several tests in one series according to your needs.

For package details and their benefits, visit the MCU Packages page.

BPJS and Insurance at Heartology

At present, Heartology services cannot yet be covered by BPJS Kesehatan (Indonesia’s national health insurance program). However, Heartology works with various private health insurance providers.

Before your checkup, it is advisable to verify your coverage with the Heartology administration team so that the process runs smoothly and comfortably.

Important Note: Understanding heart checkup costs from the start will help you prepare your budget, choose the right type of test, and make sure there are no surprises during the process. Next, let’s discuss when a heart condition needs immediate treatment in the ER so that you are ready to face an emergency.

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When to Go to the ER: Heart Emergency Signs You Should Know

Heart attacks and serious heart rhythm disorders can develop very quickly. Recognizing emergency symptoms early can save your life or the life of someone you love. Do not wait for the symptoms to improve on their own; go to the nearest emergency department (ER) right away.

Heart Emergency Symptoms

Go to the ER right away if you experience one or more of the following symptoms:

• Chest pain that feels like pressure, heaviness, or burning, especially if it spreads to the arm, back, neck, jaw, or abdomen.
• Sudden shortness of breath, even at rest.
• Excessive cold sweats without a clear cause.
• Nausea or vomiting, especially if accompanied by chest pain.
• Dizziness or nearly fainting (lightheadedness or near-syncope).
• A very fast heartbeat, or an irregular or weak heartbeat that appears suddenly.
• Extreme fatigue that comes on suddenly.
• Sudden swelling in the legs, ankles, or abdomen (which may indicate acute heart failure).

According to PERKI and the American Heart Association, heart attack symptoms in women, older adults, and people with diabetes can be more subtle, for example only shortness of breath, nausea, or mild back pain.

First Steps to Take

If you or someone around you experiences the symptoms above:

• Call emergency services (118 or 119 in Indonesia) or go to the nearest ER right away.
• Stay calm and avoid strenuous physical activity.
• Sit or lie down in a comfortable position while waiting for help.
• If the patient is unconscious and not breathing, start cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if you are trained.

Read also:

• Left-Sided Chest Pain? Here Are the Causes and How to Treat It!
• Know the Difference Between Shortness of Breath Caused by the Heart and by Stomach Acid
• Do You Often Have Cold Sweats? Don’t Ignore Them! Learn the Causes and How to Manage Them
• Do You Often Feel Nauseous and Vomit? Don’t Ignore It! Learn the Causes and How to Manage Them

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How Heartology Supports Your Heart Health Journey

At Heartology Cardiovascular Hospital, cardiologists and cardiology subspecialists can help you with everything from prevention, early detection, and diagnosis to treatment, intervention, and cardiac rehabilitation. Available facilities include a 512-slice CT scan, Intravascular Ultrasound (IVUS), and the EnSite X EP System and HD Grid 3D for arrhythmia treatment.

Heartology Cardiovascular Hospital is located in Kebayoran Baru, South Jakarta.

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Conclusion

Heart health is a valuable asset that determines your quality of life. Getting a heart checkup proactively is a courageous step that shows you care about yourself and your loved ones. This checkup is not only about detecting disease, but also about understanding your heart’s condition, preventing future risks, and planning healthier steps in life.

Do not let worry hold you back. Take the first step today to gain certainty and peace of mind about your heart health.