Reasons to See A Cardiologist

Most people don’t think about going to a cardiologist, but it may be important to see one. How severe should your symptoms be before you visit a cardiologist? Do you know how to tell whether your loved one should see a cardiologist?

Reasons to See A Brooklyn Cardiologist

Doctor recommendation: Your family physician may recommend that you see a cardiologist. If he or she does, make sure to make the appointment right away.
Pain: If you are feeling any type of pain in your heart, it is important to get it checked out.
Family history: If your family has a history of heart problems, it is important to monitor your health. Be aware of the symptoms of heart disease and speak with a cardiologist about your family history.
High cholesterol: If you have high cholesterol, you increase your risk for heart disease. A cholesterol level of over 200 mg/dL is considered high. Have your cardiologist help you monitor cholesterol levels and help you keep them at optimal levels.
High blood pressure: If you have high blood pressure, or a high systolic number, you should check in with your cardiologist regularly. Your cardiologist can prescribe lifestyle changes or medication to help you control your blood pressure. Your systolic blood pressure number is the first number of your blood pressure readout. This is the measurement of the pressure in your blood vessels when your heart beats.
You smoke or you were once a smoker: Smoking is one of the biggest risk factors when it comes to heart disease. Nicotine is a stimulant, and it makes the heart beat faster. Plus, smoking increases your blood pressure and allows the body to release stores of fat and cholesterol into the blood. Smoking also lowers the flow of oxygen to your heart and can cause blood clots. It also damages the cells that line your arteries. If you smoke, you should talk to your cardiologist about quitting and about the damage that has already been done to your heart and arteries. If a loved one smokes, talk to them about quitting.
If you are diabetic: Diabetes can increase your risk of heart disease. If you experience any heart problems and are diabetic, you should talk to a cardiologist. Or, if you know someone who is diabetic and has been having heart trouble, get them to a cardiologist.
Problem pregnancy: If you have had a difficult pregnancy or preeclampsia, you are twice as likely to develop heart disease during pregnancy or after menopause. Speak with a cardiologist about these risks.
Before you start a new exercise regimen: If you have a family history of heart problems, have had heart problems in the past, or are over the age of 40 and are new to exercising, speak to your doctor before you begin a new program. A cardiologist will make sure your heart is healthy enough for the workouts you plan to undertake. They can also recommend exercises that are heart-healthy.
You suffer from gum disease: This is a hidden sign of heart disease. Many people develop gum disease when their body is inflamed with heart disease. If your dentist diagnoses you with gum disease, make an appointment with a cardiologist for a checkup.

If you or someone you love has any of these warning signs, make an appointment with a Brooklyn cardiologist today.