Making the Diagnosis
A doctor will diagnose coronary artery disease (CAD) on the basis of symptoms and tests. Your doctor will perform a physical examination and blood tests to help with the diagnosis. Your doctor will recommend tests such as an exercise stress test, a cardiac nuclear scan, and cardiac catheterization. Catheterization indicates the severity of the disease and shows which arteries are affected. This test plays an important part in deciding if someone is suitable for bypass surgery.