Heart disease a serious condition that can increase your risk of serious complications, such as a heart attack or stroke. If you have heart disease, you need to seek treatment from a cardiologist as soon as possible. Below is some information to help you understand heart disease and recognize the symptoms so you can catch it as early as possible.
What is heart disease?
Heart disease is a group of conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels. However, the most common form of heart disease is cardiovascular disease, which occurs when plaque builds up in your arteries. This plaque narrows the arteries and restricts or blocks the flow of blood, which leads to heart attack and other complications.
What are the symptoms of heart disease?
Some of the symptoms of heart disease may include:
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Pressure in the chest
- Pain in the back, upper abdomen, throat, jaw or neck
Some people with heart disease in its earliest stages may not experience any symptoms.
How is heart disease diagnosed?
To diagnose heart disease, your cardiologist begins by reviewing your medical history and performing a thorough physical exam. Depending on the results of this part of the process, as well as your symptoms and level of risk, the cardiologist may recommend additional tests. Some of the most common tests used to diagnose heart disease include heart ultrasound, stress tests, echocardiogram, cardiac catheterization and heart monitoring.Â
Based on the results of the tests ordered, your cardiologist will determine whether you have heart disease. If you do have signs of heart disease, your doctor will recommend the appropriate treatment.
What should I do if I have symptoms of heart disease?
If you have any symptoms of heart disease, you should see a cardiologist as soon as possible for diagnosis and possible treatment. Please contact Premier Heart & Vein Care today to schedule an appointment with a cardiologist.
