Advanced Heart Care for Life

The American Heart Association recommends baseline heart screening starting at age 20, with follow-up assessments every 4-6 years if you have no risk factors. You should see a cardiologist earlier if you have:

• Family history of early heart disease (before age 55 in men, 65 in women)
• High blood pressure, cholesterol, or diabetes
• Symptoms like chest pain, palpitations, or shortness of breath
• Plans to start a vigorous exercise program
• Personal history of heart conditions

Cardiologists and cardiac surgeons work closely together but have different roles:

• Cardiologists are medical doctors who diagnose and treat heart diseases using medications, lifestyle changes, and non-surgical procedures. They manage chronic conditions and perform interventions like angioplasty and stenting.
• Cardiac Surgeons are surgical specialists who perform operations on the heart and blood vessels, such as bypass surgery, valve repair/replacement, and heart transplant surgery.

Most patients see a cardiologist first, who may then refer them to a cardiac surgeon if surgery is needed.

For your first cardiology visit, please bring:

• Photo identification and insurance card
• List of current medications with dosages
• Medical records from previous providers
• Results of any recent tests (blood work, EKGs, imaging)
• List of your questions and concerns
• Information about your family history of heart disease
• A record of your blood pressure readings if you monitor at home

You can significantly reduce your heart disease risk by:

• Eating a heart-healthy diet (rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins)
• Exercising regularly (at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week)
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Not smoking and avoiding secondhand smoke
• Limiting alcohol consumption
• Managing stress through relaxation techniques
• Controlling blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes
• Getting regular health screenings

Our preventive cardiology program can create a personalized plan based on your specific risk factors.

Common heart attack symptoms include:

• Chest pain or discomfort (pressure, squeezing, fullness)
• Pain or discomfort in one or both arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach
• Shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort
• Cold sweat, nausea, or lightheadedness
• Unusual fatigue

Women may experience different symptoms than men, including:

• Unusual fatigue lasting for days
• Sleep disturbances
• Anxiety
• Indigestion or gas-like pain

If you experience any of these symptoms, especially chest discomfort, call 911 immediately. Don't wait to see if symptoms go away.