| Welcome to the OutUK series looking at gay men and their health brought to you in association with the NHS website. |
 |
| Each week we'll tackle a different topic in our A to Z of Gay Health. We'll have features and advice on everything from relationships, sexual health, mental and physical conditions and how to stay fit. You can follow any of links provided below for more information direct from the NHS website, or see this week's feature M: MRSA. |
|
DiagnosisCoronary heart disease (CHD) is usually diagnosed after a risk assessment and some further tests. Risk assessmentIf a GP thinks you may be at risk of CHD, they may do a risk assessment for cardiovascular disease, heart attack or stroke. This may be carried out as part of an NHS Health Check. The GP will:
Before having the cholesterol test, you may be asked not to eat for 12 hours so there's no food in your body that could affect the result. The GP or practice nurse can carry out the blood test. A sample will be taken either using a needle and a syringe or by pricking your finger. The GP will also ask about your lifestyle, how much exercise you do and whether you smoke. All these factors will be considered as part of the diagnosis. Further testsYou may be referred for further tests to help confirm CHD. A number of different tests are used to diagnose heart-related problems, including:
Further information
|
| OutUK's A to Z of Gay Health continues and you can read this week's feature M: MRSA. We have covered many subjects in this series and you can catch up with all of our Previous A to Z Features. If you want to find out more about this particular topic you can visit the Original article on the NHS website. If you are worried by any aspect of your health make sure you go and see your doctor or book an appointment at your local clinic. | | |
| Photos: LightFieldStudios and one of VladOrlov, Stockcube, darak77, ajr_images or rawpixel.com. | ||