Preventative Cardiology

What is preventive cardiology?

Preventive cardiology is an effective method of avoiding heart problems. Heart disease causes more deaths than any other condition in men and women across the United States each year. Coronary artery disease (CAD) kills around 400,000 people each year, and up to 800,000 have a heart attack.

The cardiovascular disorders responsible for these frightening statistics are, in many cases, preventable. Some of the leading risk factors for developing heart disease include:

• High cholesterol
• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Smoking
• Obesity
• An inactive lifestyle
• Poor diet
• Excessive alcohol intake
• Chronic stress

You can reduce these risks with the help of the Zenith Heart & Vascular Care PLLC team and their expertise in preventive cardiology.

What happens at a preventive cardiology consultation?

The first step in preventive cardiology is to identify the problems that are increasing your risk of heart disease. 

In addition to a comprehensive physical exam and review of your medical history, your provider might order further investigations such as:

• Blood pressure measurement
• Cholesterol screening
• Electrocardiogram (EKG)
• Echocardiogram (heart ultrasound)
• Venous or arterial ultrasound
• Exercise and nuclear stress tests
• Holter or event monitoring

Depending on what they find, your provider at Zenith Heart & Vascular Care PLLC develops a holistic, individualized preventive cardiology plan for you.

What does preventive cardiology involve?

Your preventive cardiology plan is likely to feature lifestyle changes for the benefit of your cardiovascular health, which could include:

Seeing a dietician

High cholesterol from a poor diet is a common cause of cardiovascular disease. A dietician can help you make better food choices.

Following a medical weight loss plan

Being obese is a leading risk factor for heart disease and many other potentially life-threatening disorders, including Type 2 diabetes.

Stopping smoking

Smoking is another critical risk factor for heart disease as well as cancer and numerous other health problems.

Reducing your alcohol consumption

If you drink too much alcohol, you could be causing serious harm to your heart and other organs like your liver.

Stress reduction strategies

Stress can raise your blood pressure, making it harder to address issues like quitting smoking and alcohol.

Exercise therapy

Exercise has multiple health benefits for your whole body, not just your cardiovascular system.

Your provider might also prescribe medication in some circumstances to lower your blood pressure and cholesterol levels. It’s also important to manage underlying conditions like diabetes correctly.

What are the benefits of preventive cardiology?

Zenith Heart & Vascular Care PLLC’s preventive cardiology services can help you avoid many cardiovascular conditions as well as slow the progress of existing diseases, including disorders like:

• Coronary artery disease (CAD)
• Carotid artery disease
• Arrhythmia
• Peripheral artery disease (PAD)
• Congestive heart failure
• Heart attack
• Stroke
• Chronic venous insufficiency

Preventive cardiology measures also improve your overall health and wellness.

To schedule your preventive cardiology consultation, call Zenith Heart & Vascular Care PLLC or book an appointment online today.