Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, but many of the factors that contribute to cardiovascular disease can be managed with the right care and lifestyle habits. Understanding your risk factors and recognizing warning signs can help you have informed conversations with your healthcare team and know when symptoms may require immediate attention.
Heart disease risk can be influenced by both factors you can change and factors you cannot. According to the American Heart Association, important risk factors include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, overweight or obesity, physical inactivity, family history, increasing age, and chronic kidney disease.
Some risk factors can be addressed through healthy lifestyle habits and medical care. Regular physical activity, nutritious eating, avoiding tobacco, and taking prescribed medications as directed can all play a role in managing cardiovascular risk.
Regular checkups are also important. Your healthcare professional can monitor measurements such as blood pressure and cholesterol and help determine which risk factors may need attention.
Heart attack symptoms can vary from person to person. The American Heart Association recommends calling 911 if you experience warning signs, including:
Some heart attacks begin suddenly, while others may start with mild discomfort. Women may experience some symptoms that are less commonly associated with heart attacks, such as nausea, shortness of breath, unusual tiredness, or discomfort in the shoulder, back, or arm.
If you think you may be having a heart attack, call 911 right away. Do not wait to see whether symptoms go away.
Heart health and stroke prevention are closely connected. A stroke requires immediate medical attention, so knowing the warning signs is important.
The American Heart Association uses B.E. F.A.S.T. to help recognize common stroke symptoms:
Even if symptoms go away, emergency medical attention is still needed.
You cannot change every heart disease risk factor, but there are steps you can take to support your cardiovascular health.
Consider:
The American Heart Association recommends paying attention to cardiovascular health throughout life, including monitoring heart health numbers and managing conditions that can increase risk.
Heart disease does not always cause obvious symptoms before a serious event occurs. Regular healthcare visits can provide an opportunity to identify risk factors early and discuss steps that may help protect your heart.
Talk with your healthcare professional about your blood pressure, cholesterol, blood glucose, kidney health, medications, physical activity, and family history. Understanding your individual risk can help you make informed decisions about your health.
Champion Health Plan is here to support you in staying informed about your health. Talk with your healthcare team about your cardiovascular risk factors and the preventive care that may be right for you.
This article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing possible symptoms of a heart attack or stroke, call 911.
