Heart disease is one of the deadliest and most silent killers. Over 600,000 people in the U.S. alone die from heart disease each year. It’s the leading cause of death among men and women in this country. Here are some warning signs presented by Dr. Allen Amorn, a cardiologist in Canfield, Ohio, that mean you should consider booking an appointment with a cardiologist as soon as possible.
High Blood Pressure
Those with a history of high blood pressure or hypertension should see their cardiologist. If left untreated, it could lead to atherosclerosis, which is a slow buildup in the arteries. It happens when the coronary arteries build up cholesterol, fat, and plaque. This prevents the blood from flowing to the heart and can cause a heart attack
Chest Pains
Chest pains send seven million Americans to the emergency room every year, according to a study published in “JAMA Internal Medicine.” However, 85% those hospital admissions are not related to a heart attack, according to research found by Heart Sisters. Only the remaining 15% end up with angina or a type of chest pain that is a result of decreased blood flow to the heart.
But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t seek medical attention. There could be serious reasons behind this sudden onset chest pain. Aortic dissection or pulmonary embolism are two serious causes of chest pain. If you experience chest pain around your heart area, you should see your cardiologist as soon as possible, or even utilize emergency room services.
Diabetes
Diabetes occurs when your body doesn’t properly store the energy gained from eating food. As a result, you may experience high blood sugar levels. This can block the arteries over time, causing fatty material and plaque to build up and block the flow to your brain or heart. That’s why it’s important to visit your cardiologist when you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes.
Shortness of Breath
Heart palpitations, heart failure, pulmonary hypertension, coronary artery disease and many other causes can lead to shortness of breath. That heart racing and pounding feeling can be a result of a heart rhythm disturbance. Atrial fibrillation is often linked with an irregular heartbeat. It could also be related to a serious condition called ventricular tachycardia, in which you experience blackouts and dizzy spells.
History of Smoking
Maybe you’re someone who’s smoked cigarettes for several years. Smokers are aware of the lung cancer risks and respiratory problems associated with smoking cigarettes. Unfortunately, that’s often not enough to cause them to quit. Tobacco can take a terrible toll on your body and heart health beyond just the well-known respiratory damage.
Smokers have a 70% higher risk of dying from artery disease compared to nonsmokers, according to research found by the Cleveland Clinic. Not only does smoking lead to high blood pressure, but it also blocks the arteries and decreases blood flow to your heart. This makes your heart beat faster, making it harder to work.
Waist Circumference
If you’re someone who carries a significant amount of fat on your waist compared to your hips, then you may want to speak with your cardiologist. Waist circumference is a strong indicator of cardiovascular disease, especially among women. Since these classifications range from person to person, consult with your cardiologist about what your belly size should be and how you can prevent it from expanding.
Sedentary Lifestyle
Your commitment to staying active and physically fit can improve your health and well-being. Exercise increases blood flow and strengthens the muscles of your heart. Not only does it reduce fat, but it also decreases high blood pressure levels.
However, you should speak with your cardiologist before starting a new workout routine, especially if you have led a sedentary lifestyle for an extended period of time. Your specialist will help you choose which workout regimen works for you. Then you can safely get back to being active again.
Gum Disease
Gum disease may seem like a good reason to see your dentist, but it’s also another reason to visit your cardiologist. Gum disease is often caused by inflammation of the gums and can lead to clogged arteries and plaque formation, which are two common factors of cardiovascular disease.
Family History
Speaking with your cardiologist is important if you have a family history of heart disease. If someone in your family has suffered from a heart attack or cardiovascular disease, then you should see your cardiologist. It’s also important to get an exam as soon as you enter your forties or experience any concerning symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue, fainting, indigestion, or shortness of breath.
A regular cardiologist exam is recommended in addition to your regular doctor’s visits. Even middle-aged adults should book an annual appointment to detect any cardiovascular disease including risk factors.
Dr. Allen Amorn is a cardiologist and electrophysiologist who resides in Poland, Ohio. He’s worked at numerous hospitals in the area, including Mercy Health-St. Elizabeth Boardman Hospital and Mercy Health-St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital. Allen Amorn received his medical degree from Northeast Ohio Medical University. He’s been practicing for two decades since then.
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