Your heart is a hardworking muscle that beats around 100,000 times every day. It is essential to take preventive measures for this vital organ because heart illness is the top cause of death in the United States and worldwide. Knowing when to see a cardiologist might be difficult for those without established cardiac problems. Here are seven reasons to consult with your Tomball cardiology specialist.
- You have chest pain
One of the most common symptoms of cardiac disease is chest discomfort. While other reasons for chest discomfort are unrelated to the heart, chest pressure that begins or increases with activity is especially troubling since it might indicate that the heart is not receiving enough blood. A cardiologist can assist in determining the reason and the best treatment option. Chest discomfort can also indicate a heart attack, which is a potentially fatal emergency.
- You have been diagnosed with diabetes
Diabetes and cardiovascular disease have a close relationship. Uncontrolled blood sugar impacts how your blood arteries function and significantly increases your chance of coronary heart disease. A cardiologist can collaborate with your primary care physician to identify which treatment or preventative efforts will reduce your risk.
- You have a history of high cholesterol
Cholesterol is a fatty chemical in many meals and is produced by your liver. Elevated cholesterol levels can lead to artery plaque formation. Consuming a nutritious diet is one technique for lowering your cholesterol. Your clinician may prescribe cholesterol-lowering medications that reduce your heart attack risk. Consult your cardiologist about heart-healthy meals and cholesterol monitoring to lower your risk of heart disease.
- You suffer from peripheral arterial disease
Arteries are the blood vessels that transport oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the rest of your body. You are more likely to have coronary artery disease if you have known illness in other arteries, such as the leg arteries or the big blood vessels to the brain (carotid arteries). A cardiologist can advise you on whether more testing is necessary and treatment alternatives.
- You have high blood pressure
Blood pressure is the force exerted by your blood on the arterial walls. Chronically high blood pressure makes your heart work harder to pump blood, increasing the likelihood of heart attack and stroke.
- Periodontal disease
There’s a link between heart and gum disease. Bacteria present in gum disease can spread throughout the body, infecting heart valves and causing inflammation in heart arteries. Prioritize practicing proper dental hygiene and visiting your specialist every six months for a check-up and cleaning, in addition to seeing a cardiologist.
- You suffer from chronic kidney disease
Your risk of heart disease increases if your kidneys do not operate correctly. High blood pressure and vascular illness are linked to kidney disease. A cardiologist can explain how your illness affects your heart and assist you in lowering your risk of heart disease.
Making lifestyle adjustments to improve heart health is just as essential as having your heart tested by a cardiologist. You can alter many risk factors for heart disease with a few easy modifications. It is never too late to devise a strategy for living a healthier lifestyle! Call Northwest Houston Heart Center or book your consultation online to determine if you are the ideal candidate for heart disease therapies.
