You may be aware that heart disease is the top cause of death among American adults. Fortunately, increased knowledge and screening guidelines have allowed cardiac specialists to detect cardiac disease earlier, saving lives. Around 20, an average-risk patient begins regular, basic heart-risk screenings with their primary care physician. Blood pressure and cholesterol levels will be checked. Those who are overweight or obese may require extra testing. Screening for type 2 diabetes typically begins in the mid-30s or earlier in patients with high-risk factors, such as obesity. While these screens are not perfect, they can help specialists detect heart disease indicators much earlier.
However, during the last several decades, the adult population in the United States has become noticeably less healthy, putting an enormous load on our hearts. High cholesterol, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and sleep apnea have all increased in tandem with rising rates of excess weight and obesity, all of which can worsen cardiovascular disease. Normally, a doctor and a patient discuss heart health tests based on risk factors such as age, obesity, and family history.
What About Commercial Screening Tests That Claim to Identify Cancer Earlier?
In the efforts to detect disease as early as possible, new tests are being developed that make almost unbelievable claims of seeing cardiovascular disease in its early phases. While these tests may have some predictive value in and of themselves, how they are interpreted is important. Many still need to be reviewed by a certified physician.
Nevertheless, the US Preventive Services Task Force has said that these cardiovascular screening tests are usually unneeded for healthy persons. On the other hand, screening for an abdominal aortic aneurysm may be beneficial, particularly in older male smokers. If you are interested in some specific type of screening, consult with your doctor to determine whether it is necessary. If you want to do it anyway, google “cardiovascular screening near me” and see the reviews to ensure a helpful test.
Consultation with Your Cardiologist
When you have an expert cardiologist from a well-established cardiology practice at your service, you can be sure to have all the assistance, knowledge, and context to make the best decisions for your heart health. The heart screenings are frequently fully reimbursed by Medicare.
When to Consult Your Doctor
Importantly, suppose you develop any signs or symptoms of cardiovascular disease, such as chest discomfort, irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath, dizziness or fainting, persistent fatigue, or swelling in your feet or abdomen. In that case, you should consult your cardiologist immediately. If you or a close family member has a history of cardiovascular disease, you should follow your cardiologist's recommendations for increased screening.
How to Prevent Heart Diseases?
Of course, even if you have a background with several risk factors, prevention is the key to minimizing the impacts of heart disease. Starting early in life with a good diet and regular exercise can reduce your risk of heart disease and improve your results if you do get heart disease.
Don't start smoking, vaping, or using tobacco products. Quit them if you are addicted to them already. There is no such thing as a cigarette product that is risk-free. If quitting smoking or tobacco is difficult for you, contact your team for assistance in breaking the habit using tried-and-true ways. Don't just switch from one cigarette supplier to another. In addition, try to prevent secondhand smoke.
Suppose you have any risk factors for heart disease or a family history of cardiovascular problems that necessitate earlier screening. In that case, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with one of our cardiologists, who will screen you and create an appropriate follow-up schedule.
