It’s not a man’s disease: Learn your heart risk
By: Tom Barringer, MD, Novant Health Heart & Wellness

Are you at risk for heart disease? For more information, visit us online or call: 704-384-CARE (2273)

Heart disease is the number one cause of death in women. Yes, it takes even more lives than breast cancer. But over the past several years we have made enormous progress in raising awareness of heart disease and how it’s not simply a “man’s disease.” Yet most women still do not believe that they are at risk, and many do not seek appropriate evaluations or screenings. Because women are often taking care of others and making sure their family stays healthy, they tend to overlook their own healthcare needs. However, you need to know if you are at risk for heart disease. There are many steps that you can take to prevent heart attacks and strokes. In order to determine your risk, it is crucial that you are evaluated by your healthcare provider.

A cardiovascular screening generally entails an assessment of your weight, blood pressure, cholesterol levels and glucose (sugar) level. These are common screenings you receive during a yearly physical with a primary care physician. Your provider will also perform a thorough assessment of your family history, personal medical history and lifestyle, including diet, exercise and tobacco usage. A review of previous pregnancies may also be obtained, as the reproductive years offer a valuable opportunity to evaluate a woman’s lifetime risk of developing cardiovascular disease. If you have ever been diagnosed with preeclampsia, gestational diabetes or pregnancy-induced hypertension, you are at increased risk for heart disease later in life. If you are at increased risk, your healthcare provider may decide to order additional testing to get a better picture of your overall heart health. This may include additional blood tests, an electrocardiogram, an ultrasound of your heart or carotid arteries, a special CT scan to look for calcium deposits in the coronary arteries or a stress test. Screening for heart disease helps your provider better evaluate your individual risk, and it may also lead to early detection.

By detecting heart disease in its early stages, we are able to minimize damage to the heart muscle and prevent additional harm to the body. Often, the earlier the disease is recognized the easier it is to treat, requiring fewer medications and medical interventions. Early detection can have a significant impact on the quality and length of your life. “We have effective preventive medicines available, but they are most effective when heart disease is detected early,” said Tom Barringer, MD, Novant Health Heart & Wellness. “Even though our treatments have improved dramatically, the rate of heart disease has declined only slightly. It’s so important that women ask their doctors about heart disease and what screenings are appropriate for them.”

Stop heart disease from shortening your life! It’s largely preventable and treatable, but you must know if you are at risk. Click here for more information or call 704-384-CARE (2273).