Heart health refers to the overall health and function of the heart, which is a vital organ responsible for pumping blood and delivering oxygen and nutrients throughout the body. Good heart health is essential for overall well-being and longevity.
An important aspect of lowering risk of cardiovascular disease, also called coronary artery disease (CAD), is managing health behaviors and risk factors, such as diet quality, physical activity, smoking, body mass index (BMI), blood pressure, total cholesterol, blood glucose and sleep quality. But how do you know which risk factors you have? Your Internal medicine specialist may conduct or request screening tests during regular visits.
Few of us have ideal risk levels on all screening tests. However, if you do have test results that are less than ideal, it doesn’t mean you’re destined to develop a serious cardiovascular disease. On the contrary, it means you’re able to begin changing your health in a positive way.
Some measurements such as body weight and blood pressure are taken during routine medical appointments and cholesterol screening begins at age 20. The frequency of follow up will depend on your level of risk. Internal medicine doctor in Dubai monitor factors such as blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and body weight over time to detect any early signs of cardiovascular issues or other health concerns.
What Are the Regular Tests Recommended During Cardiac Screening?
The internal medicine specialist recommends several tests to diagnose cardiovascular diseases. The recommended tests are as follows:
Blood Pressure Management:
An increase in blood pressure can affect the heart. A sphygmomanometer can measure blood pressure.
Lipid Profile:
It gives information about low-density and high-density lipoprotein. Abnormal lipid levels increase the risk of heart conditions. Blood tests can diagnose this.
Electrocardiogram (ECG):
The device records the heart’s electrical activity. It is advised to diagnose heart attacks and heart failure.
Stress Test:
The doctor will ask the patient to walk on a treadmill or cycle. This will help detect blood flow to the heart and heart disease.
Echocardiography:
The device provides information about the pumping capacity of the heart. It also helps in diagnosing heart muscle abnormalities.
Cardiac Computed Tomography (CT) Scan):
A Coronary Calcium Score CT scan ) is used to measure the amount of calcium in the walls of the coronary arteries. The presence of calcium is an indicator of atherosclerosis hardening and narrowing of the arteries due to plaque buildup which can increase the risk of heart disease or heart attack.
7 Reasons Why Regular Heart Health Checkups Are Important?
Early detection of heart disease:
Routine heart check-ups can help detect heart disease in its early stages when it is easier to treat and manage. Early detection can prevent further damage to the heart and improve the chances of a full recovery.
Identification of risk factors:
A heart check-up can identify risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, obesity, and diabetes. These risk factors can be addressed and managed with lifestyle changes, medication, or both.
Prevention of heart disease:
By identifying and managing risk factors early on, heart disease can be prevented or delayed. Lifestyle changes such as healthy eating, regular exercise, and quitting smoking can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease.
Personalized treatment plans:
Based on the results of a heart check-up, doctors can create personalized treatment plans that address an individual’s specific needs. This can include medication, lifestyle changes, or a combination of both.
Monitoring heart health over time:
Routine heart check-ups can help track changes in heart health over time. This is particularly important for individuals with a family history of heart disease or those who have previously had heart problems.
Improved overall health:
A heart check-up can also include a general health assessment, which can identify other health issues that may be impacting heart health. Addressing these issues can improve overall health and well-being.
Peace of mind:
Finally, routine heart check-ups can provide peace of mind for individuals who may be at risk for heart disease. Knowing that their heart health is being monitored and managed can reduce stress and anxiety and help individuals feel more in control of their health. Routine heart check-ups are an important aspect of maintaining good heart health, preventing heart disease, and detecting and managing risk factors early on.
Regular check-ups are more than just routine visits to the doctor; they are vital opportunities to assess and manage your cardiovascular risk factors. By staying proactive and keeping up with these appointments, you can significantly reduce your chances of developing serious heart conditions. Prevention is always better than cure, and with cardiovascular disease, early detection and lifestyle management are the key to a healthy, long life. An internal medicine doctor in Dubai plays a crucial role in conducting these regular check-ups, offering comprehensive care that focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and management of cardiovascular risk factors. They specialize in treating a wide range of adult health conditions and provide personalized advice on managing lifestyle changes, such as diet, exercise, and medication.
