What are the common signs and symptoms of heart disease?
Common signs and symptoms of heart disease include chest pain or discomfort, shortness of breath, palpitations, fatigue, dizziness, swollen ankles or feet, and in some cases, nausea or indigestion. These symptoms can vary between different types of heart disease and individuals.
What are the risk factors for developing cardiovascular diseases?
Risk factors for developing cardiovascular diseases include high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, smoking, obesity, physical inactivity, unhealthy diet, diabetes, age, family history of heart disease, and excessive alcohol consumption.
How often should I visit a cardiologist for check-ups?
Visit a cardiologist annually if you have a history of heart disease, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol. Otherwise, visit every 2-3 years for routine check-ups, or as recommended by your primary doctor based on your health and risk factors.
What lifestyle changes can help improve heart health?
To improve heart health, adopt a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, engage in regular physical activity, maintain a healthy weight, quit smoking, limit alcohol intake, and manage stress effectively. Regular health check-ups to monitor blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose levels are also beneficial.
What tests are commonly used to diagnose heart conditions?
Common tests to diagnose heart conditions include electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiogram, stress tests, Holter monitoring, cardiac catheterization, and blood tests. These tests evaluate heart rhythm, structure, function, blood flow, and detect markers of heart damage to assist in diagnosing various cardiac conditions.