What to Expect During a Heart Screening from a Cardiologist

cardiologist Delray Beach, FL

Visiting your cardiologist regularly and keeping your heart healthy should be an important part of your health plan. A routine heart screening can check for warning signs of heart disease, any heart abnormalities or any risk factors for heart disease that could be minimized. The doctor may calculate your body mass index as well as incorporate a blood pressure screening, blood glucose test and cholesterol panel into your assessment. These indicators can show important facts about your heart’s health and allow your doctor to prescribe a plan of treatment personalized for your physique and lifestyle.

Heart screening diagnostics

Blood pressure

A notable indicator of heart health, blood pressure measures the pressure in the blood vessels when the heart is beating and when the heart is at rest. A normal reading of 120/80 can show a cardiologist that the heart is pumping efficiently without too much stress or strain. A reading above the normal range can indicate that the heart is having to work too hard to pump blood throughout the body.

Consistently higher than normal blood pressure can lead to heart attack or stroke; early detection is important to address the problem and control it. A doctor may recommend dietary changes or prescribe medication to manage this condition.

Body mass index calculator

Body mass index, better known as BMI, is a measure of an individual’s weight, body composition (fat versus muscle) and waist circumference. Being overweight, and especially carrying weight in the abdominal area, is a major risk factor for heart disease, heart attack and stroke; maintaining a healthy weight can lead to better heart and overall health. A BMI range of 18.5-24.9 is considered ideal and shows that one is in a normal weight range. A cardiologist can offer tips for maintaining a healthy weight and exercise plan.

Lipid panel (cholesterol)

A cholesterol panel is divided into “good cholesterol,” HDL, and “bad cholesterol,” LDL. Monitoring these readings can indicate a risk of heart disease or stroke. Often, at-risk individuals are encouraged to reduce LDL levels by changing eating habits and getting regular exercise.

Lifestyle risk factors

Smokers, alcohol users and overweight/obese individuals often show signs of being at risk of heart disease and stroke. Doctors typically encourage these individuals to reduce and eliminate harmful habits such as smoking and to participate in regular exercise and healthy eating habits. By changing lifestyle habits, individuals can contribute greatly to their own heart health.

Conclusion

Visiting your cardiologist regularly for routine examinations is an important part of keeping your heart in the best shape it can be. Monitoring blood pressure, blood glucose levels and cholesterol levels is an essential part of your doctor’s assessment of your overall heart health. Early detection can make a world of difference in matters of heart health. If it has been a while since your last heart screening or if you are due for your annual visit, call today to schedule the appointment that your heart needs.

Request an appointment here: https://floridapremiercardio.com or call Florida Premier Cardiology at (561) 325-6495 for an appointment in our Delray Beach office.

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