Why is this procedure done?
A troponin test measures the amount of troponin in the blood. Troponin is a type of protein that is very important for heart muscle contraction. It helps the heart function normally. When the heart muscle is damaged, there is more troponin in the blood. The troponin level starts to rise within 3 to 4 hours after the heart muscle is damaged. Your doctor may order this test: ‚
- To see if you have had a heart attack
- If you have chest pain
- Along with other tests for the heart like myoglobin and CK-MB. These will give a baseline for how much damage the heart has had.
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What will the results be?
- The doctor will look at the results of your test and what is normal. The doctor will know if you have an illness that needs treatment.
- If the results are normal, it means you likely do not have a problem with your heart.
- If the results are not normal, you may have a problem with your heart.
- Your doctor may order another test to verify the diagnosis.
- The doctor will talk with you about treatment.
What happens before the procedure?
- There are no special things to do before the test.
- Talk to your doctor about:
- All the drugs you are taking
- If you have any bleeding problems
What happens during the procedure?
It will only take a few minutes to have this test. You will be awake the whole time. You will have a small amount of blood taken from you with a needle. You may have a small amount of pain. The needle will be taken out and a bandage will be put on your skin. The lab will test your blood to see how much troponin is in it. ‚
What happens after the procedure?
- You may want to sit quietly for a few minutes before standing up. This will help keep you from feeling dizzy after the test.
- Ask your doctor when you will get the results.
What care is needed at home?
You may still be in the hospital when you get the results of this test. You may do your everyday activities when you get back home. ‚
What follow-up care is needed?
- Your doctor may ask you to make visits to the office to check on your progress. Be sure to keep these visits. This test will help your doctor understand if you have a problem with your heart. Together you can make a plan for more care.
- Your doctor may have you see a heart specialist if your troponin test result turns out to be positive.
What problems could happen?
- Pain
- Bruising
- Bleeding
- Feeling dizzy
- Infection
Where can I learn more?
American Association for Clinical Chemistry ‚
http://labtestsonline.org/understanding/analytes/troponin/tab/test ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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