Cardiology Q & A

Cardiovascular disease is the number one cause of death in the US. Midtown Primary Care Doctors uses state-of-the-art cardiology screening techniques to look for risk factors and early signs of disease so our New York City patients can get treatment as soon as possible.

What are the risk factors for cardiovascular disease?

 

There are many risk factors that can make you more prone to cardiovascular disease, some of which you can change (modifiable risk factors) and some of which you cannot change. The most common risk factors include:

  • high blood pressure
  • high cholesterol
  • smoking
  • diabetes
  • obesity
  • high-trans fat diet
  • excessive alcohol consumption
  • older age
  • family history of cardiovascular problems
  • male gender (although the gender difference evens out once a woman reaches menopause)
  • Asian or African ancestry

In addition, some medications such as those used in hormone replacement therapy can increase the risk of developing cardiovascular disease.

 

What are the symptoms of high blood pressure and high cholesterol?
Neither high blood pressure nor high cholesterol cause symptoms on their own, which is one of the reasons why seeing the doctor regularly and having a cardiology evaluation is critical for maintaining good health and avoiding heart attack and stroke.
Do I need a cardiac assessment?

 

The American Heart Association recommends men and women begin heart attack prevention at age 20. That means evaluating heart health as well as assessing risk factors so you can make necessary changes in your habits to help decrease your risk. Patients over age 40 and those with a personal or family history of heart problems need to be especially proactive in having their health assessed. Ask Midtown Primary Care Doctors about the steps you can take to evaluate your heart health and your need for a cardiac assessment including a stress test.

What are the signs and symptoms of cardiovascular disease?

The signs and symptoms of cardiovascular disease can vary based on the underlying cause; they may include:

 

  • dizziness or being lightheaded
  • shortness of breath
  • pale or cold skin
  • chest pain or discomfort
  • abnormal heartbeat
  • swelling in the legs, feet or ankles
  • fatigue

 

If you’ve had any of these symptoms, schedule a cardiology evaluation right away.

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Everyone was very professional and also very friendly . Although it was my first time coming there they made me feel very comfortable.

Charmaine D.

Midtown Primary Care Doctors serving Manhattan and the greater NYC area.