Warning notification:Warning

Unfortunately, you are using an outdated browser. Please, upgrade your browser to improve your experience with HSE. The list of supported browsers:

  1. Chrome
  2. Edge
  3. FireFox
  4. Opera
  5. Safari

Diagnosis - Coronary heart disease (CHD)

Coronary heart disease (CHD) is usually diagnosed after a risk assessment and further tests.

Risk assessment

If your GP thinks you may be at risk of CHD, they may carry out a risk assessment for cardiovascular disease, heart attack or stroke.

Your doctor will:

  • ask about your medical and family history
  • check your blood pressure
  • do a blood test to assess your cholesterol level

Before having the cholesterol test, you may be asked not to eat for 12 hours. This is to make sure that there is no food in your body that could affect the result.

Your 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.

Your GP will also ask about your lifestyle, how much exercise you do and whether you smoke. All these things will be considered as part of the diagnosis.

Further tests

To confirm a suspected diagnosis, you may be referred for more tests.

Different tests are used to diagnose heart-related problems, including:


Content supplied by the NHS and adapted for Ireland by the HSE

Slaintecare logo
This project has received funding from the Government of Ireland’s Sláintecare Integration Fund 2019 under Grant Agreement Number 123.

Page last reviewed: 7 March 2021
Next review due: 7 March 2024