A 2022 study in the Clinical Epidemiology and Global Health shows that the prevalence of diagnosed cardiovascular diseases was 29.4 per cent for older adults aged 45 and above in India. The good news is that heart problems are often preventable and treatable. One of the best ways to avoid heart disease is by having an honest, open conversation with your doctor. This gives you a clear picture of your personal risk factors and what steps you can take to protect your heart.

 

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If you're worried about your heart, the first step is talking to your doctor. They’re your go-to for routine checkups, physical exams, and basic tests that keep tabs on your overall health. As a matter of fact, your doctor plays a crucial role in managing heart-related issues like high blood pressure or high cholesterol, often treated with medication. 

 

Related story: 30 Questions to Ask Your Doctor During A Checkup

6 Questions to Ask Your Cardiologist

Did you know it’s possible to have heart disease without even knowing it? Even more shocking – sometimes the first sign is a heart attack! When it comes to heart health, asking the right questions can save your life. It's not always easy to know what to ask your cardiologist about your health. 

But having the right questions ready can make all the difference in understanding your risks and how to protect your heart. Next time you visit your cardiologist, make sure to ask these six important questions:

1. Am I at risk of getting heart disease in the future?
It's essential to have a good understanding of your risk factors in order to prevent heart disease. Your cardiologist will evaluate your family history, lifestyle, age, and current health conditions to provide you with a comprehensive assessment of whether you are at high, moderate, or low risk for heart disease. For instance, if your parents had a heart attack in their 50s, that puts you at higher risk. But the good news is that risk isn’t set in stone—small changes, like regular walks or quitting smoking, can lower it.

In addition to having conversations with your cardiologist, blood tests also help in evaluating your risk for heart disease. These tests measure your LDL (bad cholesterol), HDL (good cholesterol), and triglycerides, all of which influence your risk of plaque buildup in the arteries.

Take the URLife assessment tests to evaluate lifestyle factors and clinical data for a comprehensive overview of your heart health.

 

2. What should my blood pressure be?
Blood pressure is a critical factor in heart health, and keeping it within a healthy range can lower your risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular problems. Your target blood pressure should generally be around 120/80, but that can vary depending on your health conditions. 

Think of it like a tire pressure gauge—too high or too low, and it stresses your heart and arteries. Your cardiologist will tell you what your ideal numbers should be and help you set realistic goals if your current readings are higher than normal.

Book your blood test today!

 

3. Is there any specific diet that I should be following?
Diet plays a huge role in heart health, but everyone’s needs are different. A heart-healthy diet can vary depending on your needs, but in general, you want to focus on foods that are low in saturated fats, salt, and added sugars. Your cardiologist can suggest whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, and veggies. The Mediterranean diet is a great example—it’s rich in heart-loving fats like olive oil and packed with antioxidants from colorful veggies and fruits.

 

4. How does cholesterol affect my heart?
Cholesterol is essential to build cells, but too much "bad" LDL cholesterol can clog your arteries, making it harder for blood to flow and increase your risk of heart attacks and strokes. Your cardiologist can explain how your cholesterol levels are affecting your heart and whether you need to make changes through diet, lifestyle, or medications to keep them in check.

 

Related story: Lifestyle Changes That Keep Your Heart Healthy, A Cardiologist's Code

5. Does family history play any role?
If heart disease runs in your family, it’s like having a built-in warning system. Your genetics may load the gun, but your lifestyle pulls the trigger. So while you can’t change your genes, you can make lifestyle choices that significantly reduce your risk. If heart disease runs in your family, your risk of developing it can be higher. Ask your cardiologist how much your family history affects you and whether additional tests or early interventions are necessary. This helps you stay one step ahead of potential genetic risks.

6. How can I keep my heart healthy?
Prevention is better than cure. Your cardiologist will offer tailored advice based on your health status, whether it’s through regular exercise, stress management, medication, or lifestyle adjustments. It’s all about consistency. Think of your heart as a car engine that needs regular maintenance. Daily habits like 30 minutes of moderate exercise (even brisk walking), managing stress, and eating nutrient-dense foods can keep your heart in peak condition. Even something as simple as getting enough sleep can help lower your blood pressure and reduce stress on your heart.

 

Related story: What to Eat For A Healthy Heart

 

Asking your cardiologist these key questions can provide you with a clearer understanding of your heart health and the necessary steps to safeguard it. Whether it's managing your blood pressure, comprehending your cholesterol levels, or understanding how your family history impacts your heart health, being well-informed is crucial. Engaging in an open conversation with your cardiologist can definitely help you take control of your health and overall well-being. 

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