3 Signs You Need to See a Heart Specialist
You know that you need to visit your primary care provider once a year, but what about a heart specialist? Almost one in every four deaths in the United States is due to heart disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Premature death is often prevented with treatment from a heart specialist. However, you probably do not know if you need to see a specialist for your heart. Learn the signs and make an appointment if needed.
Warning signs that it is time to see a heart specialist
Far too many people ignore the warning signs regarding their hearts. Many people believe the symptoms will disappear so they delay treatment. Others think a discussion with a primary care provider is enough. Warning signs should not be ignored or passed off to a primary care provider. People who have these symptoms should contact a heart specialist.
1.Chest pain or pressure
Chest pain and pressure are not necessarily signs of heart conditions. Discomfort can be from something as common as heartburn. However, if the pain or pressure gets worse during exercise or other activities, a trip to a heart specialist is in order. The doctor will run tests to see if the heart is getting enough blood while also checking for other issues.
However, patients should call 911 if they exhibit heart attack symptoms. With a heart attack, chest pain or tightness is usually accompanied by other symptoms. Men normally experience cold sweats, left arm pain, squeezing and pressure in the chest. Also, the pain might spread to the jaw, neck and shoulders.
Women experience heart attacks differently. Heart palpitations, dizziness, lower chest pain and jaw or back pain are common symptoms of heart attacks in women. Women also might have unexplained fatigue, anxiety, nausea and shortness of breath. A heart attack is an emergency and immediate treatment is needed.
2.High blood pressure
Primary care providers use medication to regulate blood pressure. However, patients are encouraged to visit a heart specialist as well. High blood pressure can damage the arteries and cause them to narrow. This can cause significant damage to the heart.
The specialist can run tests to see if high blood pressure has already caused damage. The doctor can also help the patient manage the blood pressure. Blood pressure management often includes lifestyle changes. For example, patients might be asked to reduce stress, get more exercise and eat healthy foods. Those who smoke will be encouraged to quit.
3.Family history of heart disease
Genetics play a large role in people’s overall health. People with a family history of heart disease should see a heart specialist. The doctor can help the patient take preventative measures to reduce the risk of developing heart conditions. The heart specialist might continue to monitor the patient as well.
Do you need a heart specialist?
Your heart is one of your body’s most important organs. Keeping it healthy is critical for living a long life. See your heart specialist if you experience chest pains, have high blood pressure or have a family history of heart disease. The specialist can examine you, run tests and provide treatment if necessary. With the right help, you can enjoy a happy, healthy and active life.
Get more information here: https://floridapremiercardio.com or call Florida Premier Cardiology at (561) 325-6495
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
Recent Posts
An angioplasty is a common medical procedure to widen arteries narrowed or blocked by plaque build-up. It involves inserting and inflating a special balloon to open arteries, allowing easier blood flow to the heart. A cardiologist may recommend this procedure to those with coronary artery disease, severe related chest pain, or those at increased risk…
Cholesterol management is important to achieve good heart health. Studies reveal that high cholesterol increases one’s risk of heart attacks and heart disease. Your cardiologist may prescribe medications to enhance your cholesterol levels, but your efforts can also help improve your health. Here are some lifestyle changes for increasing your cholesterol management success.Research shows that…
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, heart disease is the leading cause of death for adults in the United States. Therefore seeking chest pain treatment is crucial, especially for those at high risk for heart disease. However, chest pain can result from various health issues, so how does one know when it…
A cardiac stress test compares the performance of your cardiovascular system (heart and blood vessels) during exercise against its performance at rest. The types of stress tests include an electrocardiogram (EKG) or an exercise stress test, stress echocardiography, and nuclear stress test. Cardiac stress tests are used to identify heart problems, such as inadequate blood…